John Deere diesel engines are designed to operate effectively in cold weather.
However, for effective starting and cold weather operation, a little extra care is necessary. The following information outlines steps that can minimize the effect that cold weather may have on starting and operation of your engine. See your John Deere dealer for additional information and local availability of cold weather aids.
Use Winter Grade Fuel
When temperatures fall below 0°C (32°F), winter grade fuel (No. 1-D in North America) is best suited for cold weather operation. Winter grade fuel has a lower cloud point and a lower pour point.
Cloud point
is the temperature at which wax will begin to form in the fuel and this wax causes fuel filters to plug.
Pour point
is the lowest temperature at which movement of the fuel is observed.
NOTE:
On an average, winter grade diesel fuel has a lower BTU (heat content) rating. Using winter grade fuel may reduce power and fuel efficiency, but should not cause any other engine performance effects. Check the grade of fuel being used before troubleshooting for low power complaints in cold weather operation.
Air Intake Heater
An air intake heater is an available option to aid cold weather staring.
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Ether
An ether port on the intake is available to aid cold weather starting.
CAUTION:
Do not use ether when:
Coolant Heater
An engine block heater (coolant heater) is an available option to aid cold weather starting.
Seasonal Viscosity Oil and Proper Coolant Concentration
Use seasonal grade viscosity engine oil based on the expected air temperature range between oil changes and a proper concentration of low silicate antifreeze as recommended. (See DIESEL ENGINE OIL and ENGINE COOLANT requirements this section.)
Diesel Fuel Flow Additive
Use John Deere PREMIUM DIESEL FUEL CONDITIONER (winter formula), which contains anti-gel chemistry, or equivalent fuel conditioner to treat non-winter grade fuel (No. 2-D in North America) during the cold weather season. This generally extends operability to about 10°C (18°F) below the fuel cloud point. For operability at even lower temperatures, use winter grade fuel.
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