Cold weather can be a huge headache for diesel vehicle owners. With the decrease in temperature, diesel fuel becomes thick and even solidifies. Gelling will keep your engine from starting, destroying it, and costing you in repairs. Precaution is the best answer to make your car move when winter becomes harsh. This article will instruct you on how to prevent diesel gelling and drive safely.
What is Diesel Gelling?
Diesel gelling occurs when the fuel becomes gel-like. It is due to the small crystal structures in the fuel. The crystals are created when the temperature is low, plugging the fuel lines and filters. As a result, the fuel becomes wax and plugs into your engine’s delivery system.
Why Does Diesel Gel in Cold Weather?
Different types of diesel freeze at different temperatures. Normal diesel, often known as #2 diesel, gels between 20°F and 30°F (-6°C to -1°C). Winter diesel, or #1 diesel, does not gel and remains liquid at a lower temperature than regular diesel. Some additions influence the gelling point as well. The higher the concentration of paraffin wax in gasoline, the more likely it is to gel in freezing temperatures.
Effect of Gelling on Vehicle Operation
Gelled diesel will cause your engine to labor or fail to start. It will also harm fuel pumps or filters. Driving into a gelled fuel over and over can lead to breakdowns that put you out on the road. The risk isn’t merely inconvenience—it’s safety. You do not want to be stranded during cold weather due to fuel failure.
Types of Diesel Fuel and Their Vulnerability to Gelling
- Regular Diesel (No Additives): This regular fuel gels earlier in cold temperatures. It’s usual during warm months, but it might create problems when the temperature drops. Its freezing point is higher than that of treated or winter diesel.
- Winter Diesel (Low-Temperature Blended Diesel): This winter diesel blend is enriched with additives and has lower wax content. It’s specially made for use in cold conditions. Using winter diesel significantly lowers gelling danger. It’s your best option if you’re residing in an area with severe winter temperatures.
- Biodiesel: Biodiesel blends are environmentally friendly but will degrade more quickly in cold temperatures. B100 biodiesel, for instance, will gel at higher temperatures than diesel. If you operate with biodiesel, take extra precautions in winter.
Best Practices to Prevent Diesel Gelling in Freezing Temperatures
Anti-Gel Additives: Anti-gel additives, such as diesel treat, prevent gelation of diesel by stopping wax crystals from forming. You apply these products before a pending cold snap. Select quality products such as Power Service or Stanadyne and use reputable products according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Continued use will extend the life of your fuel system.
Cetane Boosters: Cetane boosters improve combustion and ignition. They will not prevent gelling but can assist with cold starts by ensuring that the fuel burns properly. Mixing them with anti-gel additives can smooth your engine operation.
Fuel Storage and Handling: Fill your tank, particularly before a cold snap. Having a full tank minimizes the humidity and moisture that could pose problems. Fill up with anti-gel products before weather forecasts show a cold snap. This gives your fuel extra protection. Check your vehicle’s gasoline filters on a regular basis and replace any that become blocked. Clean filters prevent wax crystal plugging.
Selecting the Proper Diesel Fuel
Portable and fixed tank heaters maintain fuel at temperatures above the gel point. Such heaters apply electricity or heated blankets to provide a temperature that avoids gelling. You may also opt for block heaters and auxiliary tank heaters, which can heat your engine and fuel supply. Plug in your engine block heater in the early morning hours to assist with starting the vehicle immediately. Also, think about mounting heater pads onto your fuel tank for extra protection.
Keeping Your Vehicle Ready for Cold Weather
Maintenance of the fuel system is important; check filters, fuel lines, and pumps regularly for blockage or wear. Cleaning the fuel system reduces the potential for gelling-related issues. In addition, engine block heaters can simplify startup in cold conditions. Plug them in well in advance so your engine is ready and warmed up when you are.
Conclusion
Don’t get left in the cold by winter gelling. Preventing diesel fuel gelling is simply planning utilizing the right fuel, additives, and storage techniques. Routine maintenance and smart thinking can get your truck running no matter how cold it gets. Take these steps now to avoid breakouts, avoid expense, and stay safe this winter. Plan ahead, think smart, and enjoy a trouble-free cold weather season.
