STARTING AND OPERATING 293
Diesel Exhaust Fluid
Your vehicle is equipped with a Selective
Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system to meet the
very stringent diesel emissions standards
required by the Environmental Protection
Agency.
The purpose of the SCR system is to reduce
levels of oxides of nitrogen (NOx) emitted from
engines that are harmful to our health and the
environment to a near-zero level. A small
quantity of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is
injected into the exhaust upstream of a catalyst
where, when vaporized, it converts
smog-forming NOx into harmless nitrogen (N2)
and water vapor (H2O), two natural components
of the air we breathe. You can operate with the
comfort that your vehicle is contributing to a
cleaner, healthier world environment for this
and generations to come.
Diesel Exhaust Fluid Storage
Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is considered a very
stable product with a long shelf life. If DEF is
kept in temperatures between 10° and 90°F
(-12° and 32°C), it will last a minimum of one
year.
DEF is subject to freezing at the lowest
temperatures. For example, DEF may freeze at
temperatures at or below 12°F (-11°C). The
system has been designed to operate in this
environment.
NOTE:
When working with DEF, it is important to know
that:
Any containers or parts that come into
contact with DEF must be DEF compatible
(plastic or stainless steel). Copper, brass,
aluminum, iron or non-stainless steel should
be avoided as they are subject to corrosion
by DEF.
If DEF is spilled, it should be wiped up
completely.
Adding Diesel Exhaust Fluid
The Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) gauge (located
on the instrument cluster) will display the level
of DEF remaining in the tank. Refer to
“Instrument Cluster” and “Instrument Cluster
Descriptions” in “Getting To Know Your
Instrument Panel” for further information.
NOTE:
Driving conditions (altitude, vehicle speed,
load, etc.) will effect the amount of DEF that
is used in your vehicle.
Another factor is that outside temperature
can affect DEF consumption. In cold condi-
tions, 12°F (-11°C) and below, the DEF
gauge needle can stay on a fixed position and
may not move for extended periods of time.
This is a normal function of the system.
There is an electric heater inside the DEF
tank that automatically works when neces-
sary. And if the DEF supply does freeze, the
truck will operate normally until it thaws.
WARNING!
Do not open the high pressure fuel system
with the engine running. Engine operation
causes high fuel pressure. High pressure fuel
spray can cause serious injury or death.
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20_DT_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 293
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