i forgot to plug my truck in last night and it hit -1... it started but it knocked like a pig and blew white smoke everywhere... how bad for it was starting it when it was that cold out w/o being plugged in???

 

The only problem is the lack of efficiency , but maybe on a regular basses it may cause carbon build up , better millage with plugging in .

 

the engine is too cold to operate correctly, but once it warms up itl be fine, try keeping a Christmas light timer to operate the heater so you can have it run for a certain time interval right before you leave in the morning so you don't have to worry about runnin up the electricity bill keeping the truck plugged in all night

 

I've never noted a drastic increase in usage, but that is a very good idea...

 

Cold start = poor oil flowing = increase in wear. Granted, this is accumulative over time and depends greatly on what you've got in there. Factors that can make a difference:
dino vs. synthetic, 5W vs. 15W. Cold start is where most wear on an engine occurs and anything to help eliminate or reduce it will prolong life. Good ideas mentioned above.
Letting it idle for at least 3-5 minutes before taking off is always good. 20 minutes is too long, wastes fuel and it's probably not getting a complete combustion at those temps(on the older models without idle adjust). Just taking it easy for the first few miles is key.
Just my 2 cents worth.

 

Is your truck stock, normally Dmax ain't that bad in the cold? You might check the balance rates on your injectors and make sure there isn't a problem.

 

yes it is stock and i run rottela T synthetic 5w-30.......i plugged it in tonight