How is diesel different from gasoline?

While diesel and gasoline are both derived from oil, they work in two different ways and are not interchangeable. Diesel fuel is designed to operate in a diesel engine, where it is injected into compressed, high-temperature air in the combustion chamber and ignites spontaneously. This differs from gasoline, which is ignited in a gasoline engine by the spark plugs.

What is Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD)?

For model year 2007 diesel vehicles, the Environmental Protection Agency mandated the use of ULSD. Very low sulfur fuels reduce particulate emissions and enable the use of advanced aftertreatment devices.

How do I know which grade to use?

Most engines are designed to operate on ASTM No. 2-D grade, but some diesel engines in stop-and-go service require No. 1-D diesel fuels for the best results. Check your owner’s manual to determine the right fuel for your vehicle and be sure to use ULSD in 2007 model vehicles and newer.

How is diesel fuel better for the environment?

Diesel fuel requires less energy to produce than gasoline. It has higher energy density and thus provides better fuel economy.

Why do diesel engines emit smoke?

Diesel engine smoke is caused by incomplete combustion. White smoke is caused by tiny droplets of unburned fuel resulting from engine misfiring at low temperature. This smoke should disappear as the engine warms up. Black smoke could be caused by a faulty injector, insufficient air, and overloading and/or over-fueling the engine. Blue-gray smoke is the result of burning lubricating oil and is an indication the engine is in poor mechanical condition.

What factors affect power/fuel economy?

Engine design is the most important factor leading to power and fuel economy. However, fuels with a higher density like our Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel No. 2 will provide improved power and fuel economy compared to fuels with Diesel Fuel No. 1 blended into them.

What should I do in the winter to adjust for the cold temperatures?

We offer winterized product in a majority of markets that experience severe weather conditions. If temperatures fall well below norms for the local area or you will be driving much farther north, additional Diesel Fuel No. 1 blending is recommended.

Why shouldn’t I just use Diesel Fuel No. 1?

While Diesel Fuel No. 1 has an advantage in low temperature conditions, there are some disadvantages, as well. The energy content of Diesel Fuel No. 1 is about 95% that of Diesel Fuel No. 2 and will provide a correspondingly lower fuel economy. Diesel Fuel No. 1 is also lower in viscosity and provides less lubrication for the fuel pump and fuel distributor.

How long can I store diesel fuel?

If you keep it clean, cool and dry, diesel fuel can be stored 6 months to 1 year without significant quality degradation. Storage for longer periods can be accomplished through use of periodic filtrations and addition of fuel stabilizers and biocides.

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