Checking Fuel Quality

[brillmtb]

Should I do this at my local stations?

How do I do this?

What is the cost?

What is the "standard" I am looking for?

 

[Crunch]

Originally posted by brillmtb

Should I do this at my local stations?

There is no real way to "check" it, but there are many theories out there on where to buy your fuel, i. e. "high volume" truck stops that go through a lot of fuel. Unless you are traveling I'd recommend buying from one trusted location and save your receipts. If you have a problem you only have to rag on one station. Here's a good link for diesel fuel information:



Diesel, what the heck is it, anyway?

How do I do this?

You are supposed to be able to get a brochure at the counter called a POP (Point of Purchase) that details the fuel rating and the additives they put in at the time of delivery.

What is the cost?

It's not worth getting analyzed unless you have a problem with it.

What is the "standard" I am looking for?

Regular diesel fuel has a cetane rating of 40-45. Premium diesel has a cetane rating of 45-50. It is unlikely you will find a cetane rating above 50.



You can fill up at the pumps for big rigs, but be advised that the nozzle is a bit larger and the fuel is under more pressure. It only takes a minute or so to fill up at these pumps. It's also tough to dribble the last couple of $$ worth of gas into your tank if you like to top it off. If you're not careful you can spill a lot of diesel down the side of your truck, onto the ground and all over your pants.