Anti-gelling additive needed??

[jpclwill]

Hello,

I have been reading a lot on SDD to learn all I can as I have never owned a diesel before. I have owned my truck for about a year now. All of you guys are very knowledgeable and helpful. I enjoy reading your thoughts and listening to your expertise. So I decided to make my first post! I am going to some cooler climate for a break from the heat of the desert and I am wandering if I am going to need to add any anti-gelling to my tank. I am going up into the mountains around 8000ft + and it is predicted to be in the low to mid 20s at night highs in the 30s (somedays not above 30) during the daytime. I have not been to any colder climate than 40 or so degrees with this truck. So I just need to know. I appreciate your responses.

BTW...I have a 2004 F250 Crewcab 4X4 6.0 diesel No mods at this point except an Airaid air filter.

 

[woofer700]

you wont need any additive for those temps, if you wanted you could add a little for some added lube to the injectors, but thats not really needed either for your truck. that being said, i do rum some additive in mine for the inj.

 

[bushpilot]

when i lived in virginia i only ONCE added cetane booster/anti-gel...even
into the low teens. you wont need any anti-gel (unless it makes you feel
more comfortable)

if anything you need to make sure your batteries are in good shape

you dont say if youre gonna have access to 110v AC current or not...
and its not necessary at those temps but it could make the starting easier
if you can plug in the block heater. (below and in to the 20s it makes a diff)

the block heater doesnt need to be plugged in more than 3hrs before
you intend to start the truck.

the block heater draws about 1100w (dont give any more $ to the
electric company than you have to)...many of us use TIMERS to activate
our block heaters (theres info in my signature links if you want more info)

 

[diesel patriot]

Definately check your batteries before you go. I thought I had a gelling problem once but turned out to be weak batteries. If you bought your truck in Arizona, you may not have the block heater harness. If not, you can get one and install it fairly easy.

 

[bushpilot]

Diesel Patriot is spot on ! EVERY truck was manufactured w/ the block heater...they
just didnt give ship the CORD w/ Every truck.

check ebay...the cords can generally be purchased for less than 15 bucks...heres one w/ the cord
AND heating element (which you dont need) for 9.99 ! CLICK HERE

heres some more too... CLICKY Your Mouse HERE

the dealer will want $50 or more for the same cord.

follow the directions at the link below to route the cord properly
FDDTS - 6.0L Block Heater Cord Location and Routing

 

[jpclwill]

Thanks for all the replies. I do have a heater cord hanging down and it looks like it is attached, but I have never had to use it before. So I will be sure to bring an extension cord with me. My batteries were put in new in March 2007 so they should be fine. I have not had any troubles so far. Thanks again

 

[JimmyDee]

You will not need to plug in your truck for 20 degree temps. Mine will start with no problem down to zero and maybe lower. I wouldn't be too concerned about low 20s.
Jim

 

[bushpilot]

theyll ALL start fine into the single digits and
teens...but theyll CRANK easier if theyre plugged
in below 20* or so.

 

[woofer700]

True, just not needed.

 

[jpclwill]

Just another question that I had thought of....Do you ever have to hit the go pedal when starting when it is really cold?? I know that it is fuel injected...but I remember when I lived back east in my gasser fuel injected car, sometimes you had to to get it running. Is that ever necessary on the diesel injection or no?? Thanks again for all the info!