2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Fuel Quality

[SGoodman]

I have been watching the posts and seeing quite a bit on #1 vs #2 and prem. vs. reg. and fuel additives, but I personally just feed my truck whatever comes out of the pump. I make sure to watch the mix of 1/2 to meet the temp. (MN, -10 right now) and have never had a problem starting the truck, and go to the same station when I can. I was wondering if there is a way to know fuel quality other than just performance. I found a station that seems to pumps decent fuel but should I be checking the filter to make sure? any ideas?





'01 2500 HO 6spd 4. 10

 

[JohnE]

Welcome to TDR

Call Cummins. They test the fuel quality around here and in the winter cetane levels on #2 barely meets minimum.

Personally, I only go 50/50 when the temps will be staying -20's and colder. This time of year, I usually go for around 30-40% #1 AND use additive.



What part of MN?

 

[SGoodman]

Thanks. Live in the twin cities area right now. What additives do you use? Maybe it's wrong not to put something extra in.

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

Bosch did a fuel study in the states a year or so back, and found that *80%* of the fuel they tested from various stations was BELOW spec for their injectin pumps! I think this related to both purity, lubricity and cetane ratings - will see if I can find the document and post it here.



Obviously, it's no wonder injector pumps have problems - especially the VP-44's - they are used most widely in European vehicles that have FAR greater and stricter controls over diesel fuel quality. It also points out the advisability of running as much filtering and additives as your pocketbook and conscience will allow to at least give the pumps a fighting chance with our typically POOR fuel...

 

[KBalzuweit]

I filled up my aux 115 gal tank at Road Ranger @ exit 15 I-80 in IN and headed west. Made it 150 miles and the truck started to spit and sputter. Switch over to the other (oem) tank cleared up and ran fine (fuel fro a Flying J). Stopped at the next rest area open the drain on the aux tanks fuel filter and nothing came out. I spun off the filter and I had a thick goo in it. I had drained the filter the day befor this fill so I know it had no water in it. I also had treated the fuel when I filled up too. I guess what I am trying to say is no matter how much you treat the fuel, if its bad fuel its going to gel. I did the rest of the trip on the oem tank (1600 miles) and made it back to IL. Put the truck in the garage and thawed out the system. Luckily I am heading south for the next trip so the fuel will not gel and I can use it up. Just will not go to a Road Ranger again!



Karl

 

[Royal]

SGOODMAN-------------There is a testor available that you can use to test the CETANE value of diesel fuel. I have used one and they should be avordable, but I don't know who makes it. I could find out for you if you are interested.

 

[JohnE]

Lots of additives to choose and good for both injection pump and lift pump.

Power Service & Howe's add lubricity and anti-gell are easily available.

CPFF, Stanadayne, Penray, Amsoil, and the list goes on. Just avoid the thaw type additives as they usually contain alcohols.



I'm running Penray right now. I'll probably go back to Howe's or Power Service when the Penray runs out.



Two local stations that carry "winterized" fuel had complaints of gell when temps dipped to -20's. I blend myself at local truck stop. Espar has an 1/8" fuel line and gells easily. Cummins fuel heater works very well.



The Twin Cities has a growing diesel group. Check Local and Regional Chapters & Events for threads on upcoming activities.

 

[SGoodman]

Thanks John