I’ve worked with diesel engines long enough to know what separates a reliable additive from one that wastes your money. Over the years, I’ve tested products, compared results, and kept a close eye on the companies behind them. My process is simple: I only recommend products that consistently perform, have a strong reputation, and provide real-world value to diesel operators. That’s why I’m confident in pointing you toward Howes. They have a proven track record, and I’ll break down exactly why their additives stand out. By the end, you’ll know what to use to prevent gelling, protect your system, and keep your fuel stable all year.
The Winter Problem You Can’t Ignore
Anyone running diesel in cold weather has faced fuel gelling or slow starts. I’ve seen trucks sidelined overnight because their fuel system wasn’t prepared. Once diesel gels, you’re stuck until you thaw things out. That’s why planning ahead matters. You need a product that doesn’t just claim to work but is backed by years of trust across the industry.
One of the best cold-weather solutions is Howes Diesel Treat. This formula is designed to prevent fuel gelling before it starts. It also handles water in the fuel, adds lubricity, and improves combustion efficiency. I recommend it because it doesn’t rely on alcohol or harsh solvents, which means it’s safe for your system while keeping you moving in freezing conditions.
Why Howes Stands Out
I’ve seen plenty of diesel additives hit the market, but most don’t stay long. The difference with Howes is that they’ve built their reputation over more than a century. Their Diesel Treat is widely recognized as one of the best anti-gel products in North America. On top of that, they offer a winter tow guarantee. If their product doesn’t prevent gelling and you need a tow, they’ll cover it. That level of confidence says a lot.
But Howes isn’t just about winter protection. Their Diesel Defender works year-round to clean injectors, improve fuel economy, and boost lubricity. With its IDX4® detergent, it handles internal diesel injector deposits that many other additives don’t address. I like this because it solves long-term performance problems, not just cold-weather emergencies.
Solving Fuel Storage and Emergency Issues
For those storing diesel, stability is a major concern. I’ve seen storage tanks build up sediment, water, and microbial growth when left untreated. Howes developed Meaner Power Kleaner to handle exactly that. It keeps fuel stable, reduces deposits, and helps stored diesel perform like fresh fuel. If you’re keeping a backup supply for generators or heavy equipment, this is a product that saves you from costly issues down the road.
And let’s not forget emergencies. If you’ve ever tried to start a truck that gelled overnight, you know how stressful it is. Howes Diesel Lifeline can reliquefy gelled fuel and de-ice frozen filters fast. I’ve seen operators use it to get back on the road without tearing down their system or waiting hours for heat to work. That’s a huge advantage when time is money.
Why I Recommend Howes Over Other Brands
Plenty of companies advertise “all-in-one” solutions, but many cut corners with alcohol or solvent-based formulas that aren’t good for your system. What I respect about Howes is their consistency. Every product in their line is petroleum-based, solvent-free, and safe for diesel and biodiesel. They’ve earned the trust of fleets, farmers, and everyday diesel operators for decades.
Their additives don’t just focus on one issue. They cover every angle: anti-gel, injector cleaning, storage stability, emergency reliquefying, and even penetrating oil for general maintenance. If you want one brand you can stick with for all your diesel needs, Howes is the clear choice.
Final Thoughts
If you run diesel engines, you know downtime costs money. Protecting your system with the right additive isn’t optional—it’s essential. From preventing gelling with Diesel Treat to cleaning injectors with Diesel Defender and stabilizing stored fuel with Meaner Power Kleaner, Howes has solutions that work. I recommend them because they’ve proven themselves across industries and back up their claims with guarantees. Use them, and you’ll save yourself from breakdowns, expensive repairs, and wasted fuel.
That’s the real benefit: peace of mind knowing your diesel is protected in every season.
