Alternative Anti-Gel Method?

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Call_Me_The_Breeze, Jan 12, 2016.

  1. Call_Me_The_Breeze

    Call_Me_The_Breeze Medium Load Member

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    Hi all...I actually have two years in, so not necessarily new, but still consider myself a rookie. Yesterday, a friend (with 5 years experience on me) told me to use ordinary Mercon-Dexron automatic transmission fluid (non-detergent type) to prevent gelling. He tells me this was passed on to him from another driver.

    He also says it helps fuel mileage and cleans the injectors. While I trust this fellow's input, and I'm sure it wouldn't be a problem with a 60-Series or a B-model Cat, I'm skeptical that this may cause problems in the long run with modern emission-equipped engine control systems. I have a Cummins ISX in my current ride, 2013 model. He says he has been doing this with an older ISX without issue. I am simply concerned about long-term damage. Any thoughts?
     
    Last edited: Jan 12, 2016
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  3. 062

    062 Road Train Member

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    Doubt it'll work as anti-gel. With that year motor and all the emissions stuff. Stick with the white power service or howes.
     
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  4. 123456

    123456 Road Train Member

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    In days gone by, it was common practice.

    I wouldn't do it with todays fuel, it doesn't have the lubricants like it used to.
     
  5. 8thnote

    8thnote Road Train Member

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    If you are a company driver, you should consult your maintenance department and use whatever they recommend.
     
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  6. Pedigreed Bulldog

    Pedigreed Bulldog Road Train Member

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    ATF is red. I try to avoid adding anything red to the fuel tanks on the off chance the revenuers are out checking tanks. ANY evidence of red dye in the fuel and you'll be accused of running non-taxed "off road" fuel and that comes with a heafty fine.

    You're better off just using the stuff specifically made for use as an anti-gel.
     
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  7. scottied67

    scottied67 Road Train Member

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    Anti gel products are snake oil scams. Don't need it. If it is cold enough out there, just idle all night to keep the fuel temperature up. Most truckstops in the north sell pretreated fuel already and you can find Diesel #1 once in a while to further protect your fuel without paying $50 bucks a gallon per volume for that little 2 pint bottle of treatment.
     
  8. pattyj

    pattyj Road Train Member

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    That's what I've always used is power service and ,never had any issues with it.
     
  9. Long FLD

    Long FLD Road Train Member

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    ATF works. So does gas, 1 gallon per 10 gallons of diesel. I wouldn't try either in an emissions truck though. #1 fuel is your best bet if it's going to get real cold.
     
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  10. AModelCat

    AModelCat Road Train Member

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    Just use #1 diesel. Cardlocks and gas stations up here in Northern Alberta supply only #1 diesel in winter. We hardly ever have issues with fuel gelling even with outside temperatures hitting -40 some days.
     
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  11. Call_Me_The_Breeze

    Call_Me_The_Breeze Medium Load Member

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    Limited to a handful of designated fuel stops anyway, was just curious if this works and if I could use it in a pinch.
     
  12. Singlescrew

    Singlescrew Light Load Member

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    Dec 28, 2015
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    Most any cold winter states have the #1. I will also suggest that as I've never had a gelling issue with only that. Just hit my temp gauge and it's -6 where I'm at. Enjoy!
     
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