Hey guys, new to the diesel engine and how it works.

2012 3500 came with winter grill cover and engines block heater. I haven't used either as its been less than a month of ownership.

Live in Utah, past week has been mid 40's as high. Snow last couple days, and seems like truck takes a while to heat up sometimes.

When is it recommended to use either? And is the factory grill cover going to scratch up the grill and bumper? Is the lower part needed or can it be cut off? And what's the ideal engine and auto tranny temps on this thing and what temps cause worry?- owners manual sux..

 

I think this question was answered when you first posted it however Diesels need to run at there max temp that is why you have a winter front to keep the cold air from cooling the rad and engine down, the lower one is to keep cold air away from the oil pan,use your block heater on a timer over night and install your front covers you'll notice a big difference.