New to def

[Qbeanie]

I live in Phoenix and temps have reached 100degrees. I need to add def to my new truck. Should add a small amount or a full 2.5 gal? I do t drive much si ce the pandemic?

 

[Ltngdrvr]

Even at 100 degrees, DEF in your truck will last about a year.
DEF tank on your truck is about 5.5 gallons.

 

[Cummins12V98]

Run it down to 1/8 tank then add 2.5. Wash rinse repeat.

 

[JR]

Up to 90 degrees Cummins says DEF is good for one year. Above 90 degrees shelf life falls off sharply. Keep your jugs out of direct sunlight. Store in a cool dark place (basement) and don't buy more than you really need.

 

[Ltngdrvr]

Run it down to 1/8 tank then add 2.5. Wash rinse repeat.

Heck, you could run it all the way down to the "200 miles to 5 mph" warning if you wanted to.

 

[Learjet]

4 replies and covered perfectly...new record

 

[Ltngdrvr]

4 replies and covered perfectly...new record

Oh heck, it won't end there, this being one of those can of worms subjects...

 

[gsbrockman]

DEF tank on your truck is about 5.5 gallons.

And what if the OP has a Cab & Chassis?

 

[bcbender]

Ive been filling it at the Love's truck stop, done it twice now right at ~4.5 gal when the 200mi/5mph warning is on. I hear alot about just adding the boxes, is that the preferred method? As we head into summer, I may just do that after I get back in July from MT.

 

[Topzide]

I got a DEF tester to keep an eye on what is in the tank. I'll run mine down and add 2.5 gal jug of Super Tech. Haven't had any issues with the brand. Just check to make sure they're sealed before purchase and store in basement. Only fill full when going on longer trip to avoid running low and needing to find some. I'll also check jugs with tester to satisfy myself before adding! Whether buying at pump or by the jug, make sure there is a good amount of turn to insure fresh product. Enjoy these trucks!

 

[JR]

I hear alot about just adding the boxes, is that the preferred method?

You will hear arguments either way til the sun goes down on this subject, but for me it isn't optional. I would have to go waaay out of my way to get DEF at the pump so I just buy one jug at a time.

 

[AH64ID]

I work within a couple miles of a truck stop with a DEF pump, so that’s where I fill. Much easier, and cheaper, for me to use the pump. It’s stored underground and has a high turnover rate.

It’s also a single swipe transaction with my EFS Card.

I get ~ 1000mpg empty and ~500mpg towing so it varies how often I have to fill, but having a full tank going into a road trip has been great as I don’t worry about it on the road.

 

[Ltngdrvr]

Ive been filling it at the Love's truck stop, done it twice now right at ~4.5 gal when the 200mi/5mph warning is on. I hear alot about just adding the boxes, is that the preferred method? As we head into summer, I may just do that after I get back in July from MT.

If it's convenient to you to fill at the truck stop pump, then that is fine, you always know the DEF is fresh at a busy truck stop.

 

[JR]

An EFS card is really the only way filling up at major truck stops is economical. Otherwise the prices are so much higher than local stations.
Of course this is assuming one is local and filling up locally. On the road with a trailer they are the most convenient, and part of why the prices are so much higher.

 

[AH64ID]

An EFS card is really the only way filling up at major truck stops is economical. Otherwise the prices are so much higher than local stations.
Of course this is assuming one is local and filling up locally. On the road with a trailer they are the most convenient, and part of why the prices are so much higher.

Correct. Even then it's sometimes better and sometimes not.

 

[Cummins12V98]

Heck, you could run it all the way down to the "200 miles to 5 mph" warning if you wanted to.

This is true and have done so. Just giving a little time to buy some fresh.

 

[Cummins12V98]

Ive been filling it at the Love's truck stop, done it twice now right at ~4.5 gal when the 200mi/5mph warning is on. I hear alot about just adding the boxes, is that the preferred method? As we head into summer, I may just do that after I get back in July from MT.

If convenient stick to the Truck Stops, most likely the most fresh you can get.

 

[bcbender]

Yep... I live in NC where I40 and I85 share a corridor.... there are about 10 truck stops within about 5 miles.... Been getting my diesel and DEF from the high volume stations... I plan to carry a box of DEF when I go west in June just in case. Side note, what is the shelf life? the dealer gave me a box when I got the truck in DEC... should I toss it or will it be good in June still.. do they have expiration dates?

 

[lpennock]

Yep... I live in NC where I40 and I85 share a corridor.... there are about 10 truck stops within about 5 miles.... Been getting my diesel and DEF from the high volume stations... I plan to carry a box of DEF when I go west in June just in case. Side note, what is the shelf life? the dealer gave me a box when I got the truck in DEC... should I toss it or will it be good in June still.. do they have expiration dates?

No need to carry a box with you. Walmarts are everywhere as are Loves, Flying J and Pilot truck stops. You won't have any issues getting DEF if you need it.

 

[Cummins12V98]

I carry a box with me when I travel. Double towing makes it difficult to stop. I like to be prepared.

I also would rather pay $10 for a box instead of $20.