"Eisboch" wrote in message
. ..

"JLH" wrote in message
...


How does the Sprinter do on these cold mornings?

It started fine the other day at 14 degrees after sitting without running
for about a month.
I haven't tried it on the really cold days. I don't like to start
engines unless I am going to drive them long enough to warm up to
operating temp.

My experience has been that diesels are fine until the temp gets below
zero. The major fuel suppliers modify the fuel formulations for "winter"
and "summer" blends that adds anti-gelling properties for cold weather.
Now, if you lived in Alaska or North Dakota, that would be a different
story where the use of block heaters and additional fuel conditioners is
required.

Shortwave has a point though. Using a block heater here in New England
would surely help with the engine warm up time. Mine takes about 8 miles
of driving before the engine temperature gauge even starts to move.
Fortunately, my truck is equipped with heated seats, so it is tolerable.
Also, although not "hot" ... the heater does start to throw some warm air
within the first couple of miles, even if the gauge hasn't moved.

Eisboch


I usually have an extension cord available to plug in my block heater and
battery blanket.
In temperatures below 10F it makes a big difference. The battery is near
full potential and the engine turns over easily (reducing wear & tear).
The window defroster and interior heater work quicker too.