2012 Ford F550 Cab Diesel Supplement 3rd Printing - Page 11

Driving COLD WEATHER OPERATION Changing to a lighter grade engine oil also makes starting easier under these conditions. Refer to Engine oil specifications in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter of this supplement. Diesel fuel is adjusted seasonally for cold temperatures. Diesel fuel which has not been properly formulated for the ambient conditions may form wax crystals which can clog the fuel filters. At temperatures below 20°F (-7°C), if the engine starts, stalls after a short time, and then will not restart, the fuel filter(s) may be clogged. For best results in cold weather, use a diesel fuel which has been formulated for the ambient conditions. If you have been using biodiesel, you may need to use a fuel with lower biodiesel content, try another brand, or discontinue using biodiesel. Do not use alcohol based additives to correct fuel gelling. This may result in damage to the fuel injectors/system. Use the proper anti-gel & performance improver product as listed in the Maintenance product specifications and capacities section in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter. Your vehicle is equipped with a diesel fuel conditioner module (DFCM) which recirculates fuel from the engine to help prevent fuel filter clogging. To avoid engine fuel starvation during cold weather operation of 32°F (0°C) or below, it is recommended that the fuel level in your tank should not be allowed to drop below 1⁄4 full. This will help prevent air from entering the fuel system and stalling the engine. Your vehicle is equipped with a an SCR system which uses diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) to operate properly. DEF must be replenished at certain intervals. When filling the vehicle's DEF tank in cold weather, special care must be taken to prevent damage to the DEF tank. For proper cold weather fill procedure, see Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) System in the Maintenance and Specifications chapter. In cold weather below 32°F (0°C), the engine may slowly increase to a higher idle speed if left idling in P (Park). As the engine warms-up, the engine sound level will decrease due to the activation of PCM-controlled sound reduction features. If your vehicle is operated in a heavy snow storm or blowing snow conditions, the engine air induction may become partially clogged with snow and/or ice. If this occurs, the engine may experience a significant reduction in power output. At the earliest opportunity, clear all the snow and/or ice away from inside the air filter assembly. Remove the air cleaner cover and the pleated paper filter, leaving the foam filter in and remove any snow or ice. Ensure the foam filter is installed correctly in 11 2012 Diesel (67l) Supplement, 3rd Printing USA (fus)