BURN2U:
wether excessive idleing can harm an engine depends on a couple factors:
Engine coolant system configuration- can it efficiently cool without having air forced through radiator without vehicle moving? WEll, (opinion) my 76 blazer, though crude and cumbersome, cooled fine after acquizition of an electric cooling fan, wich the contour has! So if your vehicle senses heat accumulation, the fan kicks on and cools fluid. Also make sure the coolant is good level and condition of course!
Lubrication system- can the oil pump efficiently/adequately operate to properly lubricate internal engine components at slow RPM's? Umm, im a new contour owner myself, and do not know much about the oil pump. Also might be an engine (model)specific issue. Does anyone else know the oil pump efficiency at low rpm's??? Id like to know as to applied to the stock Zetec I4 16v.
last, some may consider this an opinion, is that an accumulation of impurities in fuel delivery and exhaust system can more redially accumulate at low rpm. I am talking about carbon buildup, unburned fuel(in exhaust), and gasoline impurities (fuel injectors). Thus, your solution to this issue is to take er out on da interstate for a few minutes
!
So...Long story short, depends on vehicle wether excessive idleing will cause problems.
I guess i wouldnt give myself an ulcer worrying about your situation, as contours are da shiznatch.
This information is derived from personal experience, formal education, and common sense. Use at own risk. [Sarcasm?]
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Hope it helps,
Pat
