OP asked for pros and cons of diesel motor homes and here is a con from the
experts at Good Sam Roadside

GOOD SAM ROADSIDE DIESEL FUEL GELLING

Roadside Tips > Diesel Fuel Gelling: Motorhome Tips for Protecting Your Engine
Unlike the Dr. Scholls’ “Are You Gellin” commercials, in diesel fuel gelling is actually a bad thing.

Gelling is a process that begins as temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or zero degrees Celsius. This gelling affect is predetermined by the grade of diesel being utilized, and because there are numerous grades of diesel fuel there will inevitably be different freeze points and flash points. (Note: fuels vary from state to state dependent on climatic weather conditions; information can be found on the fuel pump or at your local fueling station service counter). Gelling occurs when diesel fuel reaches a certain temperature, and is not circulating properly, which causes the paraffin wax in the fuel to separate, and it is this wax that prevents the water in the fuel from forming ice crystals. Simply put, the paraffin wax separates and clogs the fuel filters.

It is common that different grades of diesel fuels will possess additives to help prevent the gelling process but cannot be guaranteed in extreme temperatures like 10 degrees and under. To manage a situation like this, do not shut the engine off and allow the fuel to circulate throughout a warm engine. However, once the gelling process has occurred and water crystals have formed it will consequentially lead to algae growth, which can promote numerous engine problems and be a continuous cause for fuel filter replacement.

A simple way to tell if the fuel has gelled is to take a flash light and shine it into the tank; it can be easily done as most diesel engines host a large opening and a shorter fuel neck. Another method is to look at the fuel filter which typically is a glass bowl with a clear bottom to easily monitor the amount of water in the fuel. The fuel will appear to be cloudy and often will produce small “islands” floating on top of the tank or in the fuel filter bowl.

There are a few preventative measures that can be implemented like purchasing additives at your local auto parts store, however be sure to follow the manufacturers’ specific requirements thoroughly. Some of these anti-gelling products contain combustibles such as kerosene, so it is critical to be aware of how much fuel you have and the grade of fuel being used. Electing the anti-gelling product will change the flash point of the fuel or the compression level to ignite the fuel in a safe and controlled manner. A few other good practices are to ensure the fuel filters are being replaced, the system is primed, and utilizing the same grade of fuel. Remember, the fuel must be circulated throughout the engine and restore the wax adherence to the water in the fuel which should only be done by a professional who can measure the quantity of fuel in the tanks and using the proper products to treat the condition.

Should an algae growth condition occur, be certain to have this treated at a service facility. The best approach in dealing with this issue is to have the motor home taken to a service facility where the fuel system can be thawed out, and so the fuel and tank can be both inspected and treated. The best course of action will be determined by the repair facility.

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