#2

[RJBussey]

Is there any difference in the quality of #2 diesel fuel between different gas stations. The reason I ask is there is a shop selling diesel for 20 cents a gallon cheaper than the local shell, chevron type stations. I want the to use the cheaper station but as I am new to diesels I dont know if you can buy a cheaper fuel or if its all pretty much the same.



Thanks,

Robert

 

[stevenknapp]

What I've been told is that there are differences. But more important than the fuel itself is how old it is. Is the other station busy?



Around here most diesel pumps are at smaller name stations, Citgo or Marathon. There is a Mobil that has diesel, but I've NEVER seen it used.

 

[tURBOdIEZEl]

i thought #2 diesel was winter fuel? maybe im mixed up.

 

[RJBussey]

I believe #1 is winter fuel.

 

[klenger]

#2 is used both summer and winter. The winter blend has some additives to prevent gelling, but is still #2. #1 diesel is more like kerosine (sp), and does not have the lubrication qualities that our engines need.

 

[CJ8Rockcrawler]

Speaking of diesel prices, I've been meaning to post this. You guys all know about the 8 cent a gallon diesel rebate in AZ? I guess all the pumps at the stations or priced for the big trucks and anyone driving something less than 26k lbs or less than 3 axles or something like that is eligible for an 8 cent a gallon rebate. Apparently not all stations honor it (paperwork for them), but it is available.

 

[JLovas]

In cold climates (I'm in ND) ALL stations make available number 1 fuel (at least they call it number 1) in the winter. Most of the time I see Arctic Blend (just a name brand), which is 70% #1, and 30% #2 (#2 is summer fuel). This Arctic Blend is rated to -40 F I believe.



Everyone's a little different, but I run straight #2 if temps will stay above 10-15 F above 0. Anything colder than that and I switch to Arctic Blend, and if its going to be in the -30 F or colder, I also add anti-gel. I've never done it, but it sure doesn't look like fun to have everything gel up on you on the side of the road when its that cold!



A lot of frieght company's can run 100% #2 all winter long IF they ALWAYS keep the engine running and if the truck has large tank heaters... remember #1 fuel has less BTU's/gal, so your diesel vehicle will feel like it has less power, and will burn more fuel (decrease in mpg) all at the same time, so there are advantages to running #2 if you can.

 

[trextoo]

Originally posted by CJ8Rockcrawler

Speaking of diesel prices, I've been meaning to post this. You guys all know about the 8 cent a gallon diesel rebate in AZ? I guess all the pumps at the stations or priced for the big trucks and anyone driving something less than 26k lbs or less than 3 axles or something like that is eligible for an 8 cent a gallon rebate. Apparently not all stations honor it (paperwork for them), but it is available.

This is true. However, most small stations dispense at the light truck tax rate. You only get the rebate if the pump says it is using the $0. 26 rate. All stations must honor it, if they are pumping at the higher rate and you are using it for a light truck.

 

[Jengle]

Another way to tell different grades of fuel is the cetane rating. Kind of like the octane rating on gasoline. The lowest I have seen is 40, and the highest 47 in my local area. I haven't noticed any difference in the higher grade stuff.

 

[mattymac]

Time and traffic! the fresher the better, and along with traffic around my area the tanks, pumps, and filters get more attention at the stations with the most busness.