The winter season is upon us, and while it’s not as harsh as in some other parts of the world, falling temps still put stress on your diesel engine. Diesel vehicles respond far more poorly to cold than other kinds of vehicles do. If the temp gets really low, you might have difficulty getting it to start at all.
Here are some maintenance tips to keep your engine running smoothly through the winter months.
Some Notes About Fuel
Keep your fuel tank full at all times during the winter months. This prevents fuel from gelling or freezing. That’s because a larger amount of any substance is harder to freeze. Top off before you quit for the night and avoid letting your tank get down to less than half full.
Heating Tools
If you have a block heater installed in your vehicle, this is a great time to start using it. This keeps your engine warm even if it’s been sitting overnight.
Fuel Additive
If you regularly drive your diesel truck in areas where the temperature goes below 20℉, even using a specially formulated winter blend fuel may not be enough to prevent freezing and gelling. So for your own peace of mind, consider adding a fuel additive during the winter.
Change the Fuel Filter
Because of the small amount of fuel sitting on your fuel filter, this is a prime spot for fuel to freeze, especially if it’s left there for the night. So it’s a good idea to change the fuel filter regularly, and always keep a backup with you.
Lighten Your Load
Any parasitic load makes it harder for your engine to start in the cold. This can include your fan drive, your belt drive systems, and your clutch engagement.
If you want some help getting your diesel vehicle ready for winter, call the team of professional diesel mechanics at All In The Wrist Auto today.
