Ready for Winter

[TAIT]

At 5c it should crank over on the first turn.

If you're changing your oil, it would be a good time to go to the winter spec. 5w40 Rotella synthetic Shell oil...
It's the only oil I will put in my diesels.

Alright...i am having a lot of difficulty starting my van in the mornings lately (down to -5 now, here in Revelstoke!), accompanied by LOT'S of smoke for the first few minutes after start-up. The time it's taking to turn over the engine has me wondering how much longer my starter will last!?
I run the Rotella 15w40 oil, and have changed the oil/filter every 5k's. Trouble is, living here in Revelstoke, trying to find any Rotella oil is impossible, even at our local Lordco (no Wal-Mart or Crappy Tire here!). So, where do you folks buy your 5w40??? It's hard enough for me to stock up on the 15w40 when i'm in Kamloops or Kelowna...but i've never even SEEN the 5w40 anywhere!

Chris

[robinimpey]

At -5 you shouldn't be having those kinds of starting issues. If you can you should get Mardy or other reputable garage to give it a once over and find out what is wrong. We've had a few -10 days and my van starts right up with no black smoke and the engine quits shaking quite soon. (that's not plugged in) If it is plugged in I can just open the door and start it up at -25, don't even need to let the glow plugs cycle.

Better to do something before you're left stranded with a van that won't start and a burnt up starter.

Good Luck.