Cold weather starting / Summer Fuel

[EZGZ]

Oooops! Haven't needed the Dodge since last summer and just did some short errands close to home. Never used enough to need a fill up of the Colorado winter blend.



I job provides a 2k Ford diesel and it took about 7 tries to get it going in the single digit temps this morning.



I thought I might want to check the 4X4 Dodge and it fired off first try but started stumbling when I remebered the fuel issue.



Dang, Do I just have to wait for a warmer day? It is supposed to get in the 40's in a couple days.

Or will plugging in the block heater make enough heat to loosen the wax in the filter and fuel lines?



I shut it off before it died on its own hoping I wouldn't loose prime or am I going to have to use the little lever pump and all that?



I have a new filter and could change it out but really don't want to unless I have to.



Any advice? It's not like I am stranded or anything. I just like knowing my stuff will run if I need it later.

 

[TMWeber]

Plugging it in would make a big difference. I would also put some good fuel conditioner in it like Stanadyne or Howes. You shouldn't have a problem.

 

[EZGZ]

Well, that is an option. But I don't see how the block heater is going to be much help when the fuel system is outside the block.



Any other suggestions or advice? I just want to get it running so i can get over and fuel it up with the right stuff.



Can't believe nobody else has gotten themselves in this fix. hmmmm

Guess I must be the only procrastinator around here.

 

[JLEONARD]

Then use the block heater and throw a blanket or something similar over the block and around the filter , etc. That should warm it up a bit.

Remember to remove it before you start the engine :-laf

They also sell diesel conditioner for situations where the fuel is gelled. If you go to a parts store like a NAPA or whatever they should have some.



Jay

 

[AlK]

My 92 CTD came with the fuel heater. My truck has started in -29 F in the bush after sitting for a couple of days. I cycled the heaters a couple of times and she fired right up. I ran little rough for 30-40 seconds and then she smoothed right out.



A couple of suggestions:-

1) Siphon as much of the summer fuel out of the tank and then pour 10 gallons of winter fuel in.

2) If you can get the truck into an enclosed garage for a day or so.