What can I do to make my 6.0 more "short trip" friendly?

[2004F250XLT]

Since getting a new job, I only have to drive about 8 miles to work. 5 days a week. 90% highway, i usually have the cruise set at 67mph. I know these engines dont like short trips, so about once or twice a week ill rip the truck down some back roads on my way home to make it happy. Im running 15/40 shell rotella non synthetic. I spend around 3-4 minutes warming the truck up every morning and driving for about 10+ minutes. So what can i do or change to make the engine run hotter, if that helps, and basically what i can do to make it more practical, thanks

[Six0~Stroker]

I don't believe their is much to do....

[2004F250XLT]

It sucks having this as my only vehicle so i have to deal with it. I am thinking of putting something behind the grille so the engine gets hotter faster. Yeah this sounds rediculous but it might be beneficial?

[atvrider93]

maybe get a little beater? I know its not what you're looking for but it might be a good idea

[2004F250XLT]

I really went out of my way to get this truck. Im 18 and a senior in high school. So Im not letting this truck go. Yeah its badass and all, but that got old quick. Wish i had gotten an f150. So i gotta work with what i got.

[phil_phil]

Might want to look at a small solar panel to help keep your batteries charged, I only drive a short distance to work and I don't think my batteries ever got a good charge which led to a Ficm problem.

[atvrider93]

Personally I doubt your batteries led to an FICM problem, they tend to go pretty easily no matter what. Mine don't get much of a commute 4 days a week either and they're fine to be honest. I meant a beater in addition to the truck but being in high school I can see how that could easily be a problem, especially since I'm only a year ahead of you in school

[bismic]

Low voltage from bad batteries is a common cause of FICM failures due to overworking (heat) the voltage amplification circuitry.

The solar charger is a good suggestion. Driving it for a good long drive at least once a week like you are doing is probably sufficient. I don't think it is necessary to put a wind block on your radiator. I would switch to 5W40 though (personal preference).

[jimmyv13]

I drive 6 miles to work each way....I get up early twice a week and take a longer route.

[Kwattro]

Keep the truck and buy a cheap beater car. That's what I did. No sense in short tripping the engine and putting on miles for a short commute to work. It's just bad for the truck.