Fuel Tips
Diesel fuel is not like other automotive fuels. Straight Number 2 diesel without additives or blending will start to cloud at around 20 degrees, and will start to gel-up at 15 degrees. Gelling is a process where the waxes inherent in diesel fuel become cold enough that they freeze, come out of solution, and bind together. Once the fuel becomes gelled, it will clog the fuel system components and fuel flow will be impaired. There are two ways to combat this problem.
1) Blending Fuels
Using a blend of number 1 diesel fuel with number 2 diesel helps prevent gelling. In areas where temperatures routinely drop below freezing, fuel stations will blend diesel fuel for the anticipated temperatures. If the station sells #1 and #2 from separate pumps, fuel can be custom blended. The cloud point of No. 2-D is lowered by about 3 degrees for every 10 percent volume of No. 1-D blended. For example: To lower the cloud point by 10 degrees it requires the addition of more than 30 percent 1-D to the original volume of 2-D. Blending fuel is a good way to prevent gelling but you must either trust that the station has blended it correctly, or that you blended it correctly. Unfortunately, blending fuel has some consequences. Number 1 diesel does not produce as much power per unit as number 2 will; lower mileage and lack of power will likely be noticeable. Furthermore, number 1 diesel has lower lubricity for fuel system components.
2) Fuel Additives
Additives are usually purchased in bottles and are combined with number 2 diesel at fill-up. Nearly all diesel additives have the ability to lower the gel point. The additive uses a chemical formula that dissolves the wax bonds in the fuel, which prevents the gelling. The amount of additive required usually goes hand in hand with the amount of fuel it is added to, but sometimes the quantity of additive is more dependent on the anticipated low temperature. Furthermore, additives have a benefit that is not present with fuel blending; they utilize a lubricity package that helps lubricate fuel components. Lubricating fuel components is claimed to improve injector life and extend the lifespan of the components. There are many diesel additives available in today's market. Purchase one that is alcohol-free and works for you
As a final word of advice, be sure to give you diesel enough time on those cold winter mornings to properly warm up. Be prepared to let them idle and don't rush to get out on the road before your truck is ready. Follow these tips and soon warmer weather will be here before you know it.