I know winter is coming to a close now but I was just wondering what people do for their diesels in the winter to keep their fuel from geling up in the Northeast. I know this doesn't deal with fuel but I know people have the block heater they plug in but what do you do for the actual fuel. Besides putting it in the garage?? Im a newbie to diesels looking to purchase my first out college

 

When it gets below zero I sometimes use a anti gel other then that I never had a problem. Once in 5 years my fuel gelled on me. I always fill at stations that turn over alot of fuel.

 

im in Pa and in i use the Howes additive every tank all year round. its an anti -gel and a lubricator for the injectors , seals etc. thats all i do for the fuel. asfar as plugging in goes... this winter was a dream no major cold weather. in previous winters the only time i plugged in was when its down into single digits. i have a timer that i plug into and the timer is set to run about 4 hours before i need to start the truck. i have started mine with no problem down to 1 degree but it sure did take a while before i had heat in the cab. some guys plug in even when its in the 30's or 40's but mostly to get cab heat quicker. these cummins engines seem to not have much if any trouble starting in cold conditions. dont be afraid to ask questions here. there are lots of guys here with lots of diesel experience and knowledge. good luck -- scott

 

Most all pump fuel in the northern states is winterized down to around zero from Nov to March.
If you need more protection use one of the many anti-gel additives available at any autoparts store or even Walmart.

 

Stanadyne!

 

As a former OTR trucker and current local trucker, I've used Power Service (white jug for winter, gold for summer), and FPPF, in both the big rigs and my p/u, with no problems. Howes, Lucas, and Stanadyne are also good.
There's not quite the problem now with gelling as there used to be due to better handling and storage of fuel. However, you can still get moisture in the fuel, from condensation as well as bad supply tanks. Try to find a good station and fill there as often as possible. What I do is run a fairly heavy dose of additive when the temps begin getting down around freezing, to clear up any moisture already in there, then a normal dose whenever temps are forecast to go below the mid 20's. Some will tell you you don't need it, but I say better safe than sitting along the side of the road freezing your butt off.
One other thing to keep in mind, the feds are mandating removal of sulphur from the fuel, and you will need lubricant for the pump and injectors, so a little additive in every tank won't hurt anything, and will probably help your fuel system last. Read the label, most additives only call for a few ounces per 10 gallons of fuel.