If you’re driving a truck in Dallas, Texas, you know that the weather can change quickly and unexpectedly. One minute it’s sunny and warm, and the next minute you’re dealing with a cold front. This can cause problems for your truck, especially when it comes to the fuel.
Cold weather can make truck fuel freeze, which can clog up the fuel lines and cause serious engine problems. If you’re dealing with a drop in temperature while driving through Dallas, there are a few things you can do to protect your truck and keep it running smoothly.
Plan your Dallas trip ahead
Take a look at the weather conditions for the areas your trucks will be traveling this winter. If the cold temperature might cause the diesel fuel to freeze, it might be costly to avail of truck repair services. Find out what the coldest temperature your trucks might encounter and plan accordingly. The colder the temperature will be on your Dallas trip, the more anti-gel additive you’ll need to keep the truck running.
Before heading out on a cold-weather trip, it’s a good idea to check your truck’s fuel lines. Make sure there are no cracks or leaks in your truck, and that the lines are properly insulated. This will help keep the fuel from freezing and clogging up the engine.
Consider parasitic loads
Parasitic loads can include engine oil viscosity, fan drive, clutch engagement, hydraulic pump engagement, belt drive systems, and anything else that’s driven by your truck’s engine. Any parasitic load during cranking can make it harder for the engine to start.
So if your truck has any of these parasitic loads, make sure they’re disengaged before you start the engine in cold weather.
Look out for the sky
No matter what, you can never be too prepared. This includes having extra tools stored in your truck to help you weather any storm and having a well-stocked emergency kit. Make sure you do this week, so you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Check the forecast for Dallas too, so you know what to expect.
Give these applications a try if you want to feel more prepared.
- Hurricane Tracker
- The Weather Channel
- Weather (standard iPhone weather app)
- FOX 4 WAPP
- Texas Storm Chasers
- MyRadar
It’s also beneficial to keep up with your local utilities on social media, since they frequently share outage and safety alerts for their clients.
Make use of fuel additives
How does one fuel their truck properly while dealing with cold weather in Dallas? Use fuel additives first!
You should use fuel additives whenever the temperature drops below 20°F to minimize the chance of fuel gelling. When the fuel begins to gel, your truck’s engine will begin to run badly. It’s difficult to do anything about it while driving when the signs of gelling appear. The best defense is to add anti-gel additives before putting them in your truck.
You should also have a truck that’s in good working condition before driving in Dallas’ cold weather. This means having fresh oil, coolant, and filters. These things will help your truck run smoothly and prevent any unexpected issues.
Take care of your truck and it’ll take care of you!
Check your coolant
A hydrometer is a very useful tool for checking the condition of your truck’s coolant. The glycol in your coolant serves two purposes: it doesn’t boil away and it reduces the freezing temperature of the solution.
Don’t fill the coolant with plain water. Every time, use a proper water/glycol solution. You don’t want your engine or radiator to get frozen.
Avoid over-cooling, which can be induced by lengthy periods of idling or excessive fan speed. Overcooling may result in poor combustion and reduced after-treatment system performance.
Hire us for your maintenance needs
Ensure your truck is in good condition by hiring WTX Truck Repair, LLC for truck repair services. We provide a wide range of services, including oil changes, coolant flushes, and fuel system maintenance. Our team of experienced mechanics will make sure your truck is ready to take on the Dallas winter.
To schedule repair or maintenance services, call (432) – 444 – 3284.
