I know Nothing About Oil Burners...

[Bob Denman]

Since I've got this cute little M-B 3.0 Turbo-diesel ordered (with the motorhome wrapped around it!), and I know nothing about the care and feeding of diesel engines: should I plan on using any fuel additives?

What (if anything) do you guys use; and why do you use it?

Thanks!

[Skip 500]

When I used to regularly run oil burners, if I was using it on a regular basis I never added anything. If it is parked for longer periods I would use Lucas Fuel Treatment. Your biggest problem will come from moisture buildup in your tanks during sitting.

[Bob Denman]

I'm assuming that keeping the tank as full as possible will help in that regard?

[Skip 500]

Yes, that does help But, I have seen diesel fuel do some strange things in cold weather. And you live up there in Nanook of the North country Just make sure you buy good quality fuel from good reputable stations.
The fuel filters that I have seen would give you nightmares

[The Gritz Carlton]

Been running diesels for years. It's the most stable fuel there is with little to no maintenance. Keep tank(s) full...I fill both tanks just around the corner every time I come in from a trip. There are anti-gelling products you can buy since you live in such cold weather. Add to tank and run it through enough to get in filters and injectors. Your unit should come with an engine block heater. since you store it at home you plug this in full time during the winter. This is a good explanation of what already comes in the fuel. Make sure anything you add is approved for use in your engine.


Diesel Fuel Additives - Clean Diesel Solutions - Donalson

[Hooligan2]

Your Mercedes Sprinter manual states Do not mix other fuels with diesel fuel and do not use special additives with the exception of "flow improvers" which may be necessary to prevent gelling in low temperatures.. ."Power Service" has a good anti-gel additive/cleaner/lubricant.

Another subject with a lot of opinions pro & con. (forum fodder)

The Mercedes diesel uses glow plugs and does not have a block heater for cold weather starts.

[Bob Denman]

Thanks for this info: I knew nothing about any of this!

[Long & Winding road]

Bob, Which RV model did you order?

Does it also have the "Moble Eye" collision avoidance system?

R U gonig to tow a trailer with your spyder on it?

[Bob Denman]

Yes; it does!
We sold the Spyder, and will just drag along a Golf-Cart on a small utility trailer.

[Long & Winding road]

Oh, Ok.

Once you use the RV for a while give us a review on the Mobile Eye please. That is something I would like to add to MY rv.

I found some other makers of similar produces online that are much cheaper but I dont know if they are any good. Sound like the Mobile Eye might be the best one on the market.

[Bob Denman]

I'm hoping that it is: my vision is deteriorating at a bit of an alarming pace...
(That's why I gave up the Spyder...)

This rig will be easier for the Missus to drive; once that finally becomes the only option for us.

[Long & Winding road]

Oh, ok, Sorry to hear about that sir. My eyesight is not the best.... esp at night.

So I know in 10 years it will be just that much worse.

I think you picked the perfect RV for your future.

I toyed with the idea of getting a small MB based RV (B or C-) to use for local trips to stores, bike riding, doctor appts (were one of use will be waiting for hours - nice to have a place to go).

AND THEN ALSO have a 32 - 35 foot RV for the long trips.

Just an Idea - might not be the best plan 10 years from now.

[The Gritz Carlton]

Bob...just got home with my new 16' car hauler. Gonna sell my nearly new utility traileron I bought for the golf cart. Paid $1400...will sell for $1000. Less than a year old. 6X10 with 24" mess sides and fold down mesh gate. Tie downs already in place.

[Bob Denman]

I am more than interested! When I get to a real computer: I'll PM you my email, so that we can discuss this further!

[Peterrrr]

Bob...If you get water in your fuel the sprinter has a dash light which will illuminate. It also has a light for a dirty fuel filter.

[Bob Denman]

It's almost idiot-proof!

(But the Mercedes engineers haven't dealt with me yet... )

[JamieGeek]

Originally Posted by Bob Denman

It's almost idiot-proof!

(But the Mercedes engineers haven't dealt with me yet... )

When making something fool proof you always underestimate the fool...

[Bob Denman]

Once they find out about me: they'll know that their goose has been cooked!

[paulwadley]

My 2018 THOR Siesta 24ss with the summit package came with the mobile eye system. It works great. You do need to review the online information about the system and how it works. You can set the distance it operates from including lane control (lane drifting). The dealership didn't know much about the system. It alerts you if you are speeding as well as gives you a heads up picture of the posted speed limit sign as you pass it on the highway. The fender mounted side view cameras are another good thing to have when changing lanes. You got to love new technology for the RV's.

[Bob Denman]

Thanks, Paul!
I love technology: as long as it makes my life easier!