The transition to winter driving can wreak havoc on diesel fuel. When temperatures drop, the paraffin wax molecules in ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel will thicken and form into larger clumps, clogging filters, restricting fuel flow and causing the Cold Filter Plug Point (CFPP). Protect your equipment with winterized diesel offered at participating TA, Petro and TA Express fuel islands network-wide* and our diesel fuel winterization checklist below.
Diesel Fuel Winterization Checklist
- Winter Additives
If your fuel hasn't been treated for the temperatures your vehicles are headed toward, you should consider treating the fuel directly in the tanks. Stop into one of our travel stores or a TA Truck Service facility to shop our selection of diesel fuel additives.
- Filters
Invest in a new fuel filter. Contaminated filters will clog and trap fuel, which can quickly put a vehicle out-of-service.
- Water Separators
Check water separators daily and drain any water buildup immediately.
- Fuel Tanks
Clean your fuel tanks to help prevent contamination in the bottom of the tanks from clogging your fuel filters or reaching the engine.
- Fuel Caps
Ensure your fuel caps are secure and fit tightly.
- Vents
Check vents to ensure water cannot enter.
- Block Heaters
Plug in block heaters or keep vehicles inside and protected if you plan to park vehicles overnight in an extremely cold climate.
- Tire Pressure
Check tire pressure before every trip (while the tires are cold) to confirm proper inflation. Cold weather naturally causes tire pressure to drop, which can increase rolling resistance and negatively impact your fuel efficiency.
Looking for more tips to protect your equipment and maximize uptime this winter? Stop into a TA Truck Service shop near you and speak to one of our expert technicians.
*Our fuel is single, double or even triple-treated, depending on regional forecasts, to prevent fuel gelling and help eliminate unnecessary breakdowns. We use a specially formulated cold flow improver that substantially reduces the cold filter plugging point (CFPP).