Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Single digits last night

[David Wheeler]

Had single digit temps last night (1 degree at one point) after a 8+ inch snowstorm and ice. Went to start the truck this morning (no block heater) and after a few cycles of the grids, it started. It then started to ramp up the RPMs as was expected, but then all of a sudden started stumbling and then died. Baby FASS lift pump is functioning. Got it started a second time, but then stumbled and died again. Using Stanodyne Lubricity Formula at all fill-ups, but I don't believe it has any anti-gel properties. Anyone with similar experience? Could use some wisdom.

 

[AEdelheit]

Sounds like the fuel is gelling, Power Service 911 will un gel it , I would add a good anti gel additive if you are not using winterized Diesel. If you have large metal external filters it may still freeze, I had to put a heated base on my filter to keep it from gelling when it was -15 out even with winterized diesel.

 

[David Wheeler]

Thank you, AEdelheit. I waited until the temp got up to a whopping 23 degrees and tried it again. This time it fired and stayed running. I immediately went and picked up some Diesel 911 as you suggested and also some of Power Service's anti-gel. Poured the 911 in the tank followed by the anti-gel. At 7 degrees this morning the truck started and stayed running. Thank you again for your reply and suggestions.

 

[JeepBuilder]

I am wondering where you are located. On Jan 13th I had -31 and boy it was cold. I have my truck parked for the winter because of the extreme salt they use on the roads here. I am in the Idaho Panhandle about 40 miles from Canada. It's winter..

 

[David Wheeler]

JeepBuilder, I live in east TN. Single digits are just nothing we are used to here. I can't imagine -31F!!! Burrrrrr......

 

[AH64ID]

Aside from the gelling issue, you shouldn’t need to cycle the grid heater more than once at those temps. You barely need one full grid heater cycle at 1°F. Multiple cycles drains the batteries and will cause the starter to spin slower, and make it harder to start.

 

[gtwitch]

Battery Condition Is also an issue here as is the condition of Alternator and charging system. My 1999 2500 gave me some issues last winter at -28 F but Powerservice in the red bottle saved the day. I have found out that most of the fuel stoops here in Wyoming are not selling blended diesel and most say they have additive in their fuel from the refineries but that seems not to prevent some fuel gelling issues. I have found a couple of fuel stops locally that are selling Blended fuel and that does help!