Immediate Actions:
1. Safety First: Pull over to a safe location as far off the road as possible. Turn on your hazard lights immediately. If it's dark or visibility is poor, use reflective triangles or flares if you have them.
2. Assess the Situation: Are you in a dangerous location (e.g., a busy highway, a blind curve)? If so, consider calling for roadside assistance immediately.
Getting More Diesel:
1. Call for Roadside Assistance: This is the easiest and often safest option. Your insurance company, AAA, or a roadside assistance plan will be able to send someone with diesel fuel to you.
2. Call a Friend or Family Member: If you have someone nearby who can bring you diesel fuel, this is a good alternative. Make sure they understand the type of diesel your truck needs (ultra-low sulfur diesel is common for this year model).
3. Find a Nearby Gas Station: If you're close enough to a gas station that sells diesel, you can try to get a gas can and have it filled. *Caution*: Gas cans can be dangerous if not handled properly. Ensure it's properly sealed and ventilated, and never fill it completely full.
4. Use a Mobile Fuel Delivery Service: Some companies specialize in delivering fuel to vehicles that have run out of gas. A quick online search for "mobile diesel fuel delivery" in your area should reveal local options.
Important Considerations:
* Type of Diesel: Use only the correct type of diesel fuel for your 2004 F-350. Using the wrong fuel can cause serious damage to your engine.
* Fueling Procedure: Be careful when adding fuel. Avoid spilling fuel on hot engine parts. Wipe up any spills immediately.
* Air in the Fuel System: Running out of fuel can introduce air into your fuel system. After adding fuel, you might need to crank the engine for a bit before it starts. If it doesn't start easily, don't keep cranking excessively. This can damage the starter. You might need to bleed the fuel system, which can be a more complex procedure. If you're not familiar with this, it's best to call a mechanic.
Prevention:
* Regularly Check Your Fuel Gauge: Don't wait until your fuel gauge is on empty. Fill up well before the needle reaches the low mark.
* Plan Your Routes: For long trips, plan your route to include gas stations and account for potential delays. Especially important with heavy loads or on hilly terrain where fuel consumption can be higher.
Remember safety is paramount. Don't attempt anything that puts yourself or others at risk. If you're unsure about anything, call for professional assistance.
