Engine takes long to heat up

Very minimal damage is occurring, but I believe the overall point is, which is better for the motor. Letting it idle cold for long, or warming the motor up quicker. Overall it’s better for the motor to warm up quicker. Less ‘solvent’ action, and a warmer oil that will lube better than a higher viscous cold oil. That’s really all anyone is trying to say.

 

If you use synthetic oil. --i do it will start easier it's 11 deg now and it turned over like it was the middle of summer. The down side is in my case it takes longer get up to temp. But i feel its a trade off i can live with. Usually i start getting heat within 5 miles
TOMB

 

for what it's worth, the thermostat is closed when the coolant is cold, which means that the majority of the coolant stays in the radiator, but there is a bypass system built into the system which lets the water in the engine block & heater core circulate through the water pump until the thermostat opens. with that being said, if the thermostat was stuck open, the truck would take longer to warm up. If you can squeeze your upper radiator hose like a pump when the engine is cold, then the stat is open.

In the winter, after 11 years & 250,000 miles, I still start the truck the same way,I put the heater on the second fan speed, & let it idle for 10 minutes then its toasty & truck runs smooth. just my 2 cents

 

I use synthetic too. Definitely better for the cold starts.

 

I do not understand how oil type could affect cold starting ability.

 

More so better cold start protection. But, synthetic holds its normal viscosity better at cold temperatures. Not as thick when cold as regular oil.