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Added my first jug of DEF in the 2020. I noticed on the label…yes I read the label, storage is between 20-80*. I guarantee the truck sees temps WAY outside this range. This is my first diesel with DEF. I was wondering what I need to look for or any precautions I need to take?
I'm not sure any. I don't tow and my truck sits in the driveway most of the time, so my DEF usage is almost nothing. I have the DEF that was in the tank when I picked up my truck in Feb 2018. So 3.5 years on the original DEF. I haven't added any. I live in Texas, so it does get pretty hot here. There is a sensor in the tank that will tell you the **** in the tank doesn't meet spec. All things decompose over time. I just can't say what that time is. You can also buy a refractometer that will show you the efficacy of the DEF in your dispenser or in your tank. If you have any concern, you should get a refractometer. They are not expensive.
Every 10k or whatever miles when you need some, go fill up at the truck stop. DEF at the pump, and no way it's been sitting for any extended amount of time.
Look up on youtube about filling up diesel/DEF at a truck stop etiquitte. We don't want to be an accidental *** to the people who bring our goods and are only allowed to work a certain amount of hours per day, by law.
I noticed the diesel pumps there are too large to fit, so didn't fill up with diesel there.
I also noticed, some of these guys must be on crack and take the nozzle out of the truck while it's still pumping, because diesel is all over the pump, and a puddle of it floating in the water on the ground. Pretty nasty stuff, so be prepared with boots and gloves.
I just check the display cluster periodically and when it says 1/2 full I'll buy 2.5 gallon jug from from Wally world and dump it in. If I'll be doing long moves with the 5th wheel or moving into more remote boondocking locations I'll buy an extra jug to have in the truck. Never thought about if there was a shelf life on doctored water.
