Are diesels that difficult?

**mds2004** · 11-29-2022, 05:24 PM

Another added benefit with the diesel that I did not see mentioned here is the exhaust brake which is a very nice feature to have.

**huntindog** · 11-29-2022, 05:28 PM

Originally Posted by JanisM1956

DEF (diesel exhaust fluid) is not an option in newer diesel trucks. You are required by law to use it. If you run out, the computer will shut down the truck and you will operate at idle speeds until you refilled it. DEF is readily available at Walmart, Sam's Club, auto parts stores, or fuel stops. It costs $21 for a 2.5 gal jug. The DEF tank/fill tube is marked by a blue cap. Next time a big rig goes by look for the blue capped DEF tank. They have to use it also. When towing (10,000lbs) I go through 1 DEF tank (7 gals) to 4 tanks (33 gal) of fuel. When not towing a DEF tank lasts a long time.

I have NEVER paid anywhere close to that price. Most of the time it has been around 8.00 a 2.5 jug. Last time it went up some around 10-11.00.

**Wileykid** · 11-30-2022, 07:24 AM

Originally Posted by huntindog

I have NEVER paid anywhere close to that price. Most of the time it has been around 8.00 a 2.5 jug. Last time it went up some around 10-11.00.

Neither have I, Walmart is $11 for a 2.5 gallon jug of DEF, and as long as the DEF meets the minimum requirements, no reason to pay twice the price for the same thing unless you want some snake oil in it. Over 200K miles using a lot of the Walmart DEF, and have never had an issue.

**ajg617** · 11-30-2022, 07:40 AM

Originally Posted by huntindog

I have NEVER paid anywhere close to that price. Most of the time it has been around 8.00 a 2.5 jug. Last time it went up some around 10-11.00.

$19.98 for Blue DEF at the Walmart and Harbor Freight here in NH. $10.92 for Walmart generic brand - last time I was in, sold out. BJs is sold out - store 25 miles away is at $14.49 for Blue DEF. Costco doesn't sell it here. Over $20 at the auto parts stores and Tractor Supply ($14 for generic) . Northeast is higher in everything regardless of store.

**Rob+Kath** · 11-30-2022, 08:11 AM

Originally Posted by Scott'n'Wendy

Not so sure about that.

Going from memory here, I have not checked recently...
When I bought the truck (2019) I went on the website for the local diesel stations that I use. They are relatively large chain stations. They gave a spec of winterized to -20F or -30F. Like you, we have reached a pleasant -40F. Cold spots in low lying areas, I have found local differences of 20F or more over a mile or so as I drive. Your mix might be a better formula.

Been to Thunder Bay several times, very nice area. Used to go to what is now called Sleeping Giant PP, and there is a Canyon park too. Beautiful.
Rob

**Rob+Kath** · 11-30-2022, 08:23 AM

Originally Posted by SolarPoweredRV

I disagree that the Diesel will require more maintenance.

Generally, I think you are correct. My thinking is biased because I just did an oil change. The 15 or 16 qts required does add up. Plus, since I am keeping this one for awhile, everything is done by the book. This makes it 'feel' like it's more to me. I am spending more on it.
I'll say it's a bit more, but not extreme.
Rob

**Scott'n'Wendy** · 11-30-2022, 08:34 AM

Originally Posted by Rob+Kath

Going from memory here, I have not checked recently...
When I bought the truck (2019) I went on the website for the local diesel stations that I use. They are relatively large chain stations. They gave a spec of winterized to -20F or -30F. Like you, we have reached a pleasant -40F. Cold spots in low lying areas, I have found local differences of 20F or more over a mile or so as I drive. Your mix might be a better formula.

Been to Thunder Bay several times, very nice area. Used to go to what is now called Sleeping Giant PP, and there is a Canyon park too. Beautiful.
Rob

All the vaccination rules are gone now so please come back up (well...maybe in a few months, kinds chilly now). I know CG's are missing the American tourists/fishermen/hunters.

**Hoopy Frood** · 11-30-2022, 09:38 AM

Originally Posted by Scott'n'Wendy

All the vaccination rules are gone now so please come back up (well...maybe in a few months, kinds chilly now). I know CG's are missing the American tourists/fishermen/hunters.

You mean you don't need a vaccination booklet, or proof of vaccination to cross the border now? Been to Thunder Bay a couple times, several decades ago, back when it still was a pretty stinky place.

Paper mills and such.

**Conner58** · 11-30-2022, 09:55 AM

Originally Posted by huntindog

I have NEVER paid anywhere close to that price. Most of the time it has been around 8.00 a 2.5 jug. Last time it went up some around 10-11.00.

Wow he must buy the premium stuff even though it's all the same 2 ingredients.

**Rob+Kath** · 11-30-2022, 12:03 PM

Originally Posted by Scott'n'Wendy

All the vaccination rules are gone now so please come back up

Temporary hijack-

We used to make a yearly trip around the Great Lakes when I was younger and tent camping. Lots of great memories going all over Ontario. Made it all the way to Hearst and found out it does not get fully dark at night in the summer. We also grew to like the push button soda cans.... Don't know if those still exist.
Never made the trip in the RV now that my tent days are gone. It's on my list, but I want to go for 3 or 4 weeks this time. It will have to wait for retirement.

Back on track. There are a lot of solid advantages to the diesel that were discussed. Its a personal choice depending on what you tow, how often and where. I made the switch when I went to a fifth wheel trailer. Then again, I like a little overkill when I can get it.

Rob.