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Message: [QUOTE="MT_Diesel, post: 1174976, member: 10422"] Hi all, my name is Ryan and I’m getting ready to buy my first diesel (of course it’s a powerstroke!). Since this is my first diesel, I’m looking for any tips or advice for owning a diesel, especially in a cold climate like Montana. [B]The Truck[/B] I’m flying out to Illinois to pick up a built 2008 F350. I was looking for a low mile, immaculate truck that was as built as I could get - I wanna feel the power of the 6.4 while also improving reliability. The truck has a few more miles than I wanted but is in pretty good condition and is mechanically exactly what I wanted. Here we go… 2008 F350 Lariat CCLB, black ext., stone int., 108,000 miles, 7k miles on engine build, 14k miles on transmission build, I just had it inspected by RCD, has the following: New factory heads RCD high rev springs RCD pushrods Decked the block ARP studs OEM Lifters Colt Stage 2 cam New fly cut & coated 0.030 over pistons Diesel Dr. duel fueler kit Flow balanced remaned injectors 60% nozzles Elite Diesel fuel bowl delete FASS 160 lpfp Elite Tow Power Plus 72mm atmo turbo Stock VGT Stock intake manifold Rudy's 6.0 exhaust manifolds Rudy's uppipes 4” downpipe 5” exhaust No Limit CAI No Limit cold side pipe w/ intake elbow Mishimoto radiator SCT tuner with RCD & Innovative tunes Spartan Dashdaq Tuner Rudy’s built transmission – Billet input & intermediate shafts, and low/reverse hub RCD torque converter Mag Hytec transmission pan Icon 2.5” level kit with 4-link Icon 2.0 non-reservoir shocks Amp steps OUO long gusset traction bars 5” OUO rear blocks Blacked out badges Smoked headlights (gone as soon as I get it) Smoked recon all around Hard sliding tonneau cover 20% tint [B]Tips, Tricks & Advice[/B] I’ve never owned a diesel, but I’ve researched a lot (literally measured in months of time reading) on PSA and other diesel forums. I plan on oil changes every 5k until Blackstone tells me I can stretch it. I’m not even gonna ask about oil – I know how to use the search function. I know some of the other common problems with the 6.4, however; I believe most of them have been addressed (DPF, EGR, valve train, pistons, etc.). What can you offer me as far as advice for a new diesel owner? I’ve gotta drive it 2,000 miles, in winter, to get home. What do I need to know? I’m planning on taking some basic tools with me – do I need SAE, metric, or both? Will typical 3/8” ratchet sockets be sufficient for the most basic troubleshooting on the road (remember I’m flying out there so weight is an issue)? I know some of these will seem like REALLY dumb questions. I’ve learned the advanced stuff here at PSA but don’t know some of the most basic stuff. Forgive my ignorance! Specific questions that come to mind are: Fuel gelling – when do I need to worry about it, what additives do I need to combat it. Fuel additives – I also know how to use the search function here but a simple yea or nay would help. How often should I change the FASS fuel filters? 10k like stock filters? How often should I check the fuel water separator? Monthly? What is barking the turbo and how do I avoid it? I gather it is caused by letting off quickly at or near WOT. Is this the same as turbo surge? What gauges should I monitor on the dashdaq? What is the max EGT I should let it get to and for how long (eg. 1500 for less than a few seconds)? Any other max/min values to watch for on other gauges (EOT, EGT, rail pressure, EPB, boost, etc.)? What EGT should I let it get down to before shutting it off? What temp (EOT or ECT?) should I let it get up to before I start driving in the morning? Anything else I need to know for the health of the turbos or motor? Below what temp should I plug in the block heater? Should I run a grille cover in winter like some of the older Cummins trucks seem to or is that not needed on a modern diesel? Does everyone use #2 diesel? Around here they have #1, #2, and a 50/50 blend. Coming from gas vehicles my whole life, if I make the dreaded mistake of putting gas in it when I’m half asleep, I assume I should drop and empty the tank entirely before starting the motor? Thanks to all who took to time to read this lengthy post. Thanks even more to those of you who take the time to offer tips and advice. I’m looking forward joining the ranks of diesel truck owners (I’ve only been wanting one for 20 years or so). I’ll post more pics and update my sig when I actually get the truck [/QUOTE]