114 STARTING AND OPERATING C OLD W EATHER P RECAUTIONS NOTE: Engine Oil Usage Operation in ambient temperature below 32°F (0°C) may require special considerations. The following charts suggest these options: Fuel Operating Range Use of Climatized ULSD or Number 1 ULSD Fuel results in a noticeable decrease in fuel economy. For the correct engine oil viscosity Ъ page336. Winter Front Cover Usage Climatized ULSD Fuel is a blend of Number 2 ULSD and Number 1 ULSD Fuels which reduces the temperature at which wax crystals form in fuel. A Winter front or cold weather cover is to be used in ambient temperatures below 32°F (0°C), especially during extended idle conditions.
This cover is equipped with four flaps for managing total grille opening in varying ambient temperatures. If a Winter front or cold weather cover is to be used the flaps should be left in the full open position to allow air flow to the charge air cooler and automatic transmission oil cooler. When ambient temperatures drop below 0°F (-17°C) the four flaps need to be closed. A suitable cold weather cover is available from a Mopar® dealer. Battery Blanket Usage NOTE: Use Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) Fuels ONLY. The fuel grade should be clearly marked on the pump at the fuel station. The engine requires the use of ULSD Fuel.
Use of incorrect fuel could result in engine and exhaust system damage Ъ page393. If climatized or diesel Number 1 ULSD Fuel is not available, and you are operating below (20°F/-6°C), in sustained arctic conditions, Mopar® Premium Diesel Fuel Treatment (or equivalent) is recommended to avoid gelling (see Fuel Operating Range Chart). A battery loses 60% of its cranking power as the battery temperature decreases to 0°F (-18°C). For the same decrease in temperature, the engine requires twice as much power to crank at the same RPM. The use of 120 Volt AC powered battery blankets will greatly increase starting capability at low temperatures.
Suitable battery blankets are available from an authorized Mopar® dealer. Under some circumstances increased engine noise may be audible in the seconds following a cold start. This is most likely to occur when using fuel that isn't blended for the ambient tempera ture present. This may occur on an unseasonably cold day or when a truck is fueled in a warmer climate and driven to a colder climate. The noise can typically be prevented by using Mopar® Premium Diesel Fuel Treatment as recom mended (see Fuel Operating Range Chart). Fuel Operating Range Chart *Number 1 ULSD Fuel should only be used where extended arctic conditions (0°F/-18°C) exist.