tinbasher123

are short trips a bad idea with a diesel? i'm talking a 5 minute trip to the store or whatever. in my area it can get to 20*F in the winter, at this temp should i use a block heater? what years had the 4 speed auto? i've never owned a diesel before, i had a lot more ?s but found the answers using the SEARCH button. i've learned alot over the last couple of days!
thanks,
dylan

wannadiesel

Short trips are a bad thing for any engine, if that's mostly what it's used for. As long as the engine is run long to reach full operating temperature most times it is started, short trips are not an issue.

The block heater will get you heat sooner at 20 degrees. The truck will start fine without it. I plug mine in when the temps get into the 40's, but that's just because I want heat fast. I can't plug in at work and have never had trouble starting there.

'91.5 and up had the 4 speed auto.

csramsey640

If you do plan on short trips, try as hard as possible to atleast make a longer trip here or there. Its very easy for injectors to get some deposits on them, etc.

lovemysan

I use my truck on property most of the time. Small apartment complex. So I try to take it out first thing in the morning for coffee. Gets good and warmed up that way. Then I drive it short trips. I try to minimize use in winter though.

If your a member of the cable crew, you can remove your keys and leave it running.

tinbasher123

its just some times for my job its a short trip to the carpool lot in the morning then a short trip back home that evening but like you said i'll just take the long route! . soon as my 76 toyota fj40 sells i'll be looking for a mint W250