Which of the following conditions is more likely to result in cold sludging?

Cold sludging is a phenomenon that occurs when engine oil becomes viscous and fails to circulate properly due to low temperature conditions. The correct choice relates to low load and low temperature operation, particularly in scenarios such as excessive idling. When an engine idles for prolonged periods, it does not reach the optimal operating temperature. As a result, the oil may not heat sufficiently to maintain its proper viscosity, leading to the formation of sludge. This sludge can accumulate in the engine, negatively impacting its performance.

In contrast, when an engine operates under high load or is subjected to conditions like overspeed or high temperature, the oil typically heats up adequately. High temperatures further help maintain oil fluidity, preventing the oil from becoming sludgy. Therefore, the conditions associated with low load and low temperatures, such as excessive idling, are more likely to lead to the issues of cold sludging in an engine.