If you have a diesel truck that is newer than 2012 then you know all about adding DEF or Diesel Exhaust Fluid (not diesel emissions fluid like I called it in the video). As we prepare to go to the Grand Canyon on a 5,000+ mile long trip I did lots of service to our 2013 Ram 2500 4x4 Truck with a Cummins 6-Cylinder Diesel Engine.

Since it had to be better than the off-name Walmart brand I switched to the PEAK Blue DEF brand when I filled my DEF tank. I'm not saying all of that brand is bad, but the 2.5 gallon bottle we got was not fresh, in fact it was far from being fresh. That triggered our Ram Truck to begin a shutdown sequence and send it into a countdown to LIMP mode. After $330 spent at the Ram service center we are back up and running with less money and more knowledge. I want to pass than knowledge on to you so can have more knowledge and keep your hard earned money.

Now to correct many of my verbal mistakes... one of these days I'll do the research first. :-)

Links To Good Info About Diesel Engines and DEF:

DEF = Diesel Exhaust Fluid

Stated incorrectly in video: It does not mask the odor as I was told by a local mechanic. DEF is sprayed into the exhaust stream of diesel vehicles to break down dangerous NOx emissions into harmless nitrogen and water.

PEAK Blue DEF: Advice from a subscriber: The new Peak blue containers are sealed and you will know its new because the pour spout is in seal clear package as well. I highly recommend only buying ones that are sealed and pulling the clear container out of the cardboard box and looking either in good light or with a flashlight and inspect the liquid to ensure it is clear and not contaminated.

Everything You Need To Know About DEF: http://www.discoverdef.com/def-overvi...

What kind of Urea is used in DEF:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diesel_...

A Few Best Practices (gleaned from YouTube and searches):
* On Ram 2500 never completely fill the DEF tank and never let it run below 1/4 tank.
* The consensus is that the freshest DEF can be pumped at truck stops.

* Link to post on how to read the date code on DEF containers: http://www.rvforum.net/SMF_forum/inde...

ABOUT US:
We are Owen and Lynn Poteat and Maggie. Together we go on lots of 8-legged hikes, travel the country in our Grand Design Reflection 29RS 5th Wheel and try to document what we see and experience at destinations we've always dreamed of going to. While there I always try to do a little fishing and grilling as well and depending on what I catch, if anything, I pass that fun and knowledge along too. Join us as we travel across this country in our little house on wheels, making friends and memories as we go. If you can't Catch Us On The Road, at least you can Catch Us Here On YouTube and we'll be happy that you did.