What is the difference between #1 & #2 diesel?

[Mactruck]

I was in Iowa fueling up and came up to two fuel pumps. One said #1 diesel, the other #2. #2 was less expensive but I filled up with #1 because it seemed it was better fuel than the #2.

Being from the east, I was perplexed. I remembered someone asking the same thing a while back, but I couldn't find the post. I was hoping a few of you guys could help clarify this.

I tried a search and it wouldn't let me search for something with 2 letters ( AKA "#2")



Thanx in advance,

 

[BV]

Diesel Difference

Not the expert but if I remember correctly #1 has less btu's and less lubrication because it is processed more to remove the wax and what not. #1 is typically used in colder areas where gelling takes place. If I were you I would be adding some fuel lubricant in the tank ASAP.



Caution - My owners manual (for a 1999) has a section in it about what percentage of #1 can be used and under what conditions.

 

[illflem]

From Chevron, read this for everything you ever wanted to know about diesel.



"What is the difference between No. 1-D diesel fuel and No. 2-D diesel fuel and can they be used interchangeably?



Always check with the manufacturer about the fuel requirements of your engine. However, both No. 1-D and No. 2-D are intended for use in compression ignition engines. In fact, in cold weather, No. 1-D is blended into No. 2-D or used by itself.

Three of the biggest differences between the two fuels are cetane number, heat content, and viscosity. The cetane number of No. 1-D may be one to two numbers below that of No. 2-D, but still above 40, the required minimum.



Since No. 1-D is less dense then No. 2-D, its heat content, measured in Btu/gallon, will be a few percent lower, leading to a similar reduction in fuel economy.



The lubricity of No. 1-D is likely to be slightly lower than that of No. 2-D because of its lower viscosity. Its lubricity is unlikely to be low enough to cause catastrophic failure. However, a steady diet of No. 1-D in equipment designed for No. 2-D may result in greater long term wear in the fuel delivery system. "

 

[Amianthus]

Illflem's got it right. That will pretty much answer your questions about fuel.



As a side note, you were in my neck of the woods and didn't call me? What's the matter with you? I suppose you were too busy getting red-cross supplies for the effort out east. If that's the case, then I understand.