Diesel Fuel Gelling Prevention

I figured this would be a good thread. Especially for you unexpecting new southern drivers that go north in the winter.

The fuel you buy at the pumps is #2 Diesel. This fuel naturally contains paraffin wax in a liquid form. At 32 degrees the wax will start to change properties and start to crystalize. At this temperature it's still safe to use, but your fuel in your tanks will start to cloud.

At about 10-15 degrees the fuel will completely gel, clogging your tank, lines and fuel filters.

In the winter during distribution, companies will create a winter blend depending on the location it is going to. A winter blend is a mix of #2 and #1 diesel. #1 is more refined and has a lower gelling temperature. They will start with a 75/25 mix and increase to a 50/50 mix the further north you go. Usually this is sufficient, but you don't know what mix you are buying when you fuel. If you fill up down south and head north, you can be headed into trouble. Some fuel stops you will see #2 and #1 diesel being sold seperately. I would buy #1 if you are headed into extreme temperatures.

The best and common practice is to use additives. Some avoid the additional expense. But it is cheaper to use additives in the winter as one breakdown is going to cost you dearly. Most companies will allow you to buy additives on your fuel card. I would follow the directions on the bottle and this will give you reassuring protection to 0 degrees and even lower.
I have added a little extra and entered -30 degree weather with no problems. The most popular are Howe's in the clear bottle and Power Service in the white jug. I've seen stats comparing the two and Power Service offers the best protection and lubricity. Both usually offer rebates. So get two receipts and cabbage up on the free cash.

Old timers use to add kerosene to their fuel. Kerosene will keep you from gelling too.

When your engine starts gelling you will lose some power at first. You will have about a mile or two to get off the road. The first thing to do is call for help as sub zero temperatures are nothing to mess with. If you are smart, you will carry a bottle of 911. This additive with help return your tanks to a liquid form. It's not the best for an engine but it's one step to get you going. Your filters will have to be removed and treated also. Replace them if you can, but remember they need to be full of fuel when replaced and add a capfull of 911 to each. Another alternative is to find kerosene and with enough added your tanks will return to liquid.

If you are a company driver, most likely you'll get towed to a warm shop to start the thaw out process.

If you enter extreme temperatures keep your truck running 24/7. Ignore people telling you to shut your truck off. Short stops like fueling it's okay to shut the truck off. If you have a reefer, keep it running, even empty. Make sure to treat that tank too.

I learned the hard way. One gel up and I guarantee you won't do it again. It's not fun at all. Stay safe and warm.