Mercedes Mullins
Gelled fuel can be a nightmare for car owners, especially in colder regions. Diesel fuel contains paraffin wax, which tends to thicken and harden in cold temperatures, turning into a gel-like substance. This gelled fuel can clog fuel filters and lines, causing engine problems and even rendering the vehicle inoperable. Gelling typically occurs when fuel tanks are left dormant, and the temperature drops. To prevent this issue, car owners can use anti-gel treatments, store their vehicles in heated areas, and maintain at least half a tank of fuel to avoid water condensation and freezing. If gelling does occur, emergency additives like Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Winter Rescue can help reliquify the gelled fuel and restore engine function.
Diesel Fuel Gelling Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Cold temperatures cause diesel fuel to turn from a liquid into a gel-like substance. |
| Occurrence | Gelling can occur as high as 20°F, depending on the source and quality of fuel. |
| Impact | Gelled diesel fuel can clog fuel lines and filters, causing engine issues and reduced performance. |
| Prevention | Use anti-gel treatments, fuel additives, or store the vehicle in a heated area. |
| Treatment | Use emergency additives like Diesel Winter Rescue or CleanBoost Diesel Rescue Emergency De-Gel to reliquify gelled fuel and restore engine function. |
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What You'll Learn
Store the car in a heated garage
Gelled fuel is a common issue for diesel car owners during the winter months. Gelling occurs when the temperature of the fuel drops, causing the wax naturally found in the fuel to crystallize and thicken. This can clog fuel lines and filters, preventing the engine from running. To prevent gelling, it is recommended to store your vehicle in a heated area during the winter.
One option for storing your car in a heated space is to use a heated garage. Keeping your car in a heated garage can help maintain a consistent temperature and reduce the risk of gelled fuel. It is important to note that simply having a heated garage is not enough; taking proper care of your car is essential. Here are some detailed instructions on how to effectively store your car in a heated garage:
- Maintain a suitable temperature: While keeping the garage heated is important, avoid excessive temperatures. A constant temperature that is slightly above the dew point is ideal. This will help prevent condensation and the formation of moisture, which can lead to rust and other issues.
- Manage humidity: In addition to temperature control, focus on maintaining low humidity levels. Consider using a dehumidifier to reduce moisture in the air, especially if the humidity is challenging to control.
- Keep the car covered: Even in a heated garage, it is recommended to keep your car covered. Use a breathable cover, such as a car cover designed for indoor storage, to protect the vehicle from dust, debris, and potential moisture. This will help keep the car clean and reduce the risk of paint damage.
- Address salt deposits: If you drive your car during the winter and bring it into the heated garage, be mindful of salt deposits from salty roads. Melting snow and salt can accelerate rust formation. Consider washing and drying the car before storing it or using a tarp to cover the vehicle and contain the salt residue.
- Battery maintenance: Remove the battery and store it separately in a heated space to preserve its longevity. Keeping the battery in the car and constantly heating and cooling it can be detrimental. Alternatively, you can keep the battery in the car and use a trickle charger to maintain its charge level.
- Fluids and filters: Check and maintain the coolant and windshield wiper fluid levels. Add extra antifreeze to the coolant, and use winter washer fluid that won't freeze to prevent bursting due to expansion. Also, ensure your fuel filter is in good condition to minimize the risk of gelling.
- Storage insurance: Consider investing in storage insurance for your vehicle. This can provide peace of mind in case any unforeseen issues arise during the storage period, such as floods or other unexpected events.
By following these instructions, you can effectively store your car in a heated garage and reduce the chances of gelled fuel. Remember that consistent temperature, low humidity, and proper maintenance are key factors in keeping your vehicle in good condition during the winter storage period.
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Use anti-gel additives
To prevent diesel fuel from gelling, you can use an anti-gel fuel supplement. Anti-gel additives are easy to use – you just top off your fuel tank with the treatment. They work by dropping the freezing point of diesel fuel, making it less likely to freeze in cold temperatures. This, in turn, lowers the Cold Filter Plugging Point (CFPP), or the lowest temperature at which fuel will still flow through a specific filter.
The reason why we have to add an anti-gel additive to diesel is that diesel fuels contain wax. Normally, the wax is a liquid in solution in the fuel, but it can cause fuel to gel, and gelled fuel can block engine fuel filters. If the temperature is low enough, the engine can gel up completely and stop working.
Anti-gel treatments are typically combinations of different active ingredients that address various aspects of how and why diesel fuel gels. They can also improve your fuel's water dispersion, lubricity, and cetane. It is important to use only the highest-quality fuel additives to effectively protect your vehicle.
You can find anti-gel additives at any automotive supply store. Well-known brands include Fuel Ox®, Hot Shot’s Secret, and Winter’s Edge. Fuel Ox® Cold Charge works in any combustible engine, including automobiles, trucks, off-road vehicles, heavy equipment, trains, and ships. Hot Shot’s Secret offers Diesel Winter Rescue, which thaws frozen filters and reliquifies gelled diesel to restore the engine’s fuel flow. Diesel Winter Anti-Gel has the added benefits of increased cetane and lubricity for better performance.
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Use kerosene
Kerosene is a useful fuel to know about when dealing with gelled fuel in a stored car. It is a low-viscosity, clear liquid formed from hydrocarbons obtained from the fractional distillation of petroleum. Kerosene is easy to use and store, and it can be used in cars in emergencies, although it is better suited for camping stoves or lanterns.
Kerosene is much more energy-efficient than gas, and it stores better and lasts longer. It is also more energy-efficient than gasoline and diesel fuel. Kerosene does not freeze or evaporate under extremely cold temperatures, making it ideal for storing in frigid climates. It is a good idea to store kerosene in a clean, tight container under ideal temperatures to keep it stable and to prevent anything from growing inside the container. Kerosene should be stored in an outside shed, not in your garage or home.
Kerosene is sometimes used as an additive in diesel fuel to prevent gelling or waxing in cold temperatures. The rule of thumb is that for every 10% of kerosene added to diesel fuel, you can achieve a temperature drop of around 3 degrees. So, to achieve a temperature drop of 15 degrees, you would need to use a 50% kerosene mixture. It is important to note that kerosene is considered a polluting fuel by the World Health Organization due to the high levels of harmful particulate matter in its smoke. As such, it is recommended to only use kerosene in vehicles in emergencies.
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Check the fuel tank and filter
If you're dealing with gelled fuel in a stored car, one of the first things you should do is check the fuel tank and filter. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Start by locating the fuel tank and filter. The fuel tank is typically found at the rear or underside of the vehicle, and the filter is usually located along the fuel line, often near the fuel pump or fuel injection system. You may need to refer to your car's service manual to identify their exact locations. Once you've located them, proceed to the next step.
Before you begin any work, it's important to ensure your safety. Fuel can be highly flammable, so make sure you're in a well-ventilated area, turn off the engine, and avoid any sources of ignition. Wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, to shield yourself from any fuel spills or debris. It is also recommended to place absorbent pads or rags beneath the fuel filter to catch any spills or drips during the inspection and removal process.
Now, carefully inspect the fuel tank for any signs of damage or leaks. Look for cracks, holes, or any signs of corrosion. If you notice any issues with the tank, it may be necessary to have it repaired or replaced by a professional. It is also important to check the fuel tank for water contamination, as water can cause fuel to gel and lead to other engine issues. Use a fuel water detector or a moisture-sensing probe to check for the presence of water in the fuel tank.
Next, focus on the fuel filter. Carefully remove it, following the manufacturer's instructions or seeking guidance from a repair manual specific to your vehicle's make and model. Typically, this involves loosening or removing any clamps or fasteners that secure the filter in place and then gently pulling it out. Once removed, inspect the filter for any signs of damage, debris, or gelling. If the filter is clogged or damaged, it will need to be replaced. It is recommended to have a spare fuel filter on hand before starting this process, as a clogged or damaged filter will need to be replaced promptly to ensure the car's proper functioning.
Finally, if you notice any issues with the fuel tank or filter, it's important to take the necessary corrective actions. This may involve repairing or replacing the fuel tank, draining and cleaning the tank if water is present, or installing a new fuel filter. Ensure that you dispose of any old fuel, filters, or contaminated materials properly, following local regulations and guidelines. It is also beneficial to consult a trusted mechanic or automotive specialist if you have any doubts or concerns during this process.
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Use an engine block heater
If you live in a place where temperatures fall below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, you should consider investing in an engine block heater to keep your diesel fuel from gelling. An engine block heater is an electrical device that you plug into your engine to keep it warm, even when the vehicle is not in use. This is especially useful if you have to park your car outside, as temperatures can drop significantly in cold weather, increasing the chances of your diesel fuel gelling.
The block heater, made of metal, retains heat well and warms the other parts under the hood of your car. This is important because diesel typically gels when exposed to low temperatures, and the wax in the fuel can solidify and cause the fuel to turn into a thick, sludgy gel that won't flow properly through your fuel pump, fuel lines, and fuel injectors. By keeping the engine warm, the block heater prevents the fuel from reaching these low temperatures and gelling.
However, it's important to note that a block heater alone may not always be enough to un-gel diesel fuel if it has already gelled. In such cases, you may need to use specialized additives in the fuel tank to speed up the process of un-gelling. These additives, such as Hot Shot's Secret Diesel Winter Anti-Gel, can help prevent gelling and improve engine performance. But be careful not to use too much additive, as it can damage your engine.
Additionally, make sure to keep your fuel tank more than half full. This helps reduce the chances of water or condensation collecting and causing your diesel to gel. Also, consider asking your local gas station if they have winterized diesel, which has a lower gelling temperature. Taking these steps, along with using an engine block heater, can help prevent and address issues with gelled diesel fuel in your stored car.
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Frequently asked questions
Fuel gelling occurs when cold temperatures cause diesel fuel to turn from a liquid into a gel-like substance. This can clog the entire fuel system since the fuel solidifies and loses its ability to flow.
There are several ways to prevent fuel gelling, including:
- Using a fuel additive such as Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Winter Anti-Gel
- Keeping your vehicle in a heated garage
- Using light bulbs, a tarp and heater, or a block heater to keep your engine warm
- Keeping more than half a tank of fuel in the vehicle
- Using kerosene
If your fuel has gelled, you can use an emergency additive such as Hot Shot’s Secret Diesel Winter Rescue or CleanBoost® Diesel Rescue Emergency De-Gel™. You should also check the fuel tank and fuel filter(s) and, if necessary, remove the filter.
