Thread: Which FUEL is best in FREEZING Climate - Petrol or Diesel?

petrol.
something like -40°C freezing point.

Doesn't matter - it comes down to having a damn good starting battery!

I have recently been editing a book on Antarctic operations fifty years ago. Most of their engines were diesel - and most used aviation turbine kerosine as fuel because the prevailing temperatures were well blow the pour point of diesel. At least one bulldozer used it as coolant as well. But petrol was used for all small motors except for generators that operated 24/7., and most of the cold associated issues with these resulted from ice crystals blocking fuel lines and jets.

My conclusion from this would be that the cold had little effect on why petrol or diesel was used - the greater economy of diesel was the major reason for its use, same as in warmer climates.

Originally Posted by JDNSW

I have recently been editing a book on Antarctic operations fifty years ago. Most of their engines were diesel - and most used aviation turbine kerosine as fuel because the prevailing temperatures were well blow the pour point of diesel. At least one bulldozer used it as coolant as well. But petrol was used for all small motors except for generators that operated 24/7., and most of the cold associated issues with these resulted from ice crystals blocking fuel lines and jets.

My conclusion from this would be that the cold had little effect on why petrol or diesel was used - the greater economy of diesel was the major reason for its use, same as in warmer climates.

Thanks... I was curious as to when u stop your travels to camp over night, then go to start your vehicle in the morning - which one is more likely to have issues in starting the engine due to frozen fuel in the fuel lines...

The non-winterised diesel, but at least it is not as volatile when one tries to thaw it out with a blow torch!

I had issues with non-winterised fuel at Ayers Rock in 1966, but that is the only time. Provided you have the appropriate fuel it is not an issue. (I changed the first filter and got going)

I can't speak for modern electronic injection diesels. My experience has been with mechanical injection engines. Detroit two strokes will start in virtually any circumstances unless they are really badly worn. Isuzu 4BD1 in my County likewise. Cummins 855 series do not like cold starts and in anything much below 40 degrees F. need a squirt of ether. Pre-chamber engines are also reluctant starters from cold. In the USA snow states I have seen trucks with an exhaust bypass that directs warm exhaust gases over the outlet of the fuel tank and the vehicle left idling all night.

Originally Posted by JDNSW

I have recently been editing a book on Antarctic operations fifty years ago. Most of their engines were diesel - and most used aviation turbine kerosine as fuel because the prevailing temperatures were well blow the pour point of diesel. At least one bulldozer used it as coolant as well. But petrol was used for all small motors except for generators that operated 24/7., and most of the cold associated issues with these resulted from ice crystals blocking fuel lines and jets.

My conclusion from this would be that the cold had little effect on why petrol or diesel was used - the greater economy of diesel was the major reason for its use, same as in warmer climates.

Bugger the fuel. John, the book sounds really interesting are you able to give more details on that yet?

50 years ago I recall a lot of the activity published at those times. Antarctica holds a special fascination for me as it does for many. Mawson lived just up the road from here. House is still there.

Were you there in those heady days?