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| Photo courtesy Chevrolet |
1) The Battery
As you head into winter you may wish to test your battery to see if it is ready for Jack Frost. According to NAPA auto parts, battery strength is reduced by 35% at 32 degrees and 60% at zero. The time to deal with an older battery is before the season, not when you get stuck somewhere and need cranking power.
If you live up north you probably know a little about the tricks diesel owners use in the winter time, but if you've just moved here from another part of the country you may want to think about getting a block heater, if your truck doesn't already come equipped. (Heated seats are nice, too, but they won't help get your truck started.)
2) Anti-Gel Fuel Additives
It depends on where you live, but for those unfamiliar it can really get frigid in winter the further North you go. Sometimes someone in Florida goes to visit family in Maine or Toronto, and is unaware of how cold it can get. You should be prepared with a suitable fuel additive to keep it from gelling before it reaches its cloud point, the point at which wax begin to form and inhibit flow.
3) Switch to Lighter Weight Oil
Unless you're a newbie you know how viscosity makes a difference between seasons. If you need help selecting the right diesel oil for your truck, you can always Ask Jake. (Hit the white Ask Jake button on the right here.)
4) Fuel Filter
The author suggests that if it's been a while since you replaced the fuel filter, this would be a good time to deal with it. We're also reminded that some trucks have two. Replace both.
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The article is basic, but a good reminder that it's that time of year and winter's coming soon... or has already arrived, depending on where you live.
The article ends with links to more info on block heaters and how to protect the exterior of your vehicle from road salt. Don't know what road salt is? It's not for your grits.
Here's a link to the article in full. Hope you've recovered from your feast yesterday and had a happy Thanksgiving.
