Winter Fuel?...Diesel

[wanted Member Find all posts View Profile Close wanted]

Hi All,

Considering that first snow has hit the peaks near Canberra, when does one need to start looking for Winter diesel? Does anyone know the issue if one does not use the 'Winter Diesel'? Do service stations switch over by them selves or do I need to find one that is selling winter diesel?

Most importantly what is the difference between normal and winter diesel?

Further, any precautions like warming up in morning or something that you should do in cold climates for D4D engine?

TIA

[r4ndll Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close r4ndll]

You don't unless you are heading to Alpine regions. The manufacturers adjust their blends according to AS 3570-1998 which means diesel in Australia must meet 'cloud-point' ratings, which is the amount of waxing at standard low temperatures in various regions. Just fill up at the pumps for the region you are in.

I believe Canberra servos have the Highland Diesel from April which is for a further 2degrees below the standard. As you head to the Snowys/Vic alps youll get Alpine diesel.

Should only affect you at start up after overnight anyway. When it's running it should be fine, most modern trucks pump excess fuel back to the tank from the injectors which will be warm and stop the waxing. I don't actually know if the D4D's do this though.

We were in Canberra and Corin Forest last August and left Sydney with a full tank, didn't fill up until back in Sydney and had no issues. Overnight temps were around -1 to 2 degrees. (Did park undercover though)

More info on winter blends and the effects of cold.


http://www.caltex.com.au/FPL%20PDS/W...l%20Blends.pdf

[wanted Member Find all posts View Profile Close wanted]

Thanks for the information. I was told to look for winter diesel as the temperatures get down to -7 C and -8 C during peak of winter.

As you mentioned the servos may get the corrected fuel as part of normal supply cycle to the region.