I remember reading that we need a minimum 45 cetane rating to ensure our trucks run properly. I have never seen a diesel pump with the ratings posted as required with gasoline, can't figure why the gov't doesn't push this issue??

I only fuel up in a few area stations that I know sell a lot of diesel so it is fresh. I remeber a few times fueling in Shrewsberry Pa the truck seemed to run a little better although it was the ULSD. I am only guessing the cetane level was higher? I was not using any cetane boosters.

 

It's possible. Some folks have reported better feel with more expensive diesel (like from Shell), but I haven't tried it out yet. I still pretty much get mine from Murphy's (Wal-Mart).

 

Izzy,

I have ususlly purchased mine from Citgo or Carroll who in my area sell a lot of diesel. It's funny, I have (2) Citgo diesel stations in my area about 3 miles apart, one Citgo station advertises "premium diesel" and the other Citgo doesn't. I'm guessing there is no difference between the two choices regarding cetane ratings. When you ask the clerk or store owner the cetane rating they look at you like you are speaking a different language.

 

Well, I guess it could be a BS thing, but there is such thing as "Premium" Diesel, and it does have higher cetane content. I believe most Shells sell "Premium" Diesel.

 

Here is a fairly informative thread on cetane levels, albeit an old thread. I do notice a difference in my truck when I run DK in my tank and when I run without.
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/...p/t-35760.html

 

Thanks, this is interesting information.

 

There is also a simple test to do on the diesel if you're interested, and that is to use a hydrometer and tall plastic tube (or maybe CPVC pipe) to check the fuel density... higher density indicating a better fuel quality, generically speaking.

I remember a long thread discussing this several years ago, and I'll see if I can find it for you. The main reason I never pursued it is because of hte potential mess involved with filing up a small diameter tube and then having to pour the fuel back in the tank... risks of spills, etc. I ended up deciding to stick with a high volume truck stop and that has worked well for me thus far.

I have noticed, though, that when I have used the Kangaroo station across the road from my usual BP station, the truck seems happier. Problem is that I can't pre-pay at the Kangaroo and I'm just not going to go back and forth into the store twice for a fillup when I can go somewhere else and either fill before paying or pay at the pump.

Joe, I also noticed that the DK gave me some mileage benefits, but have stuck with the Optilube ULX since that additive report came out about fuel lubricity.

EDIT: I found the other thread... Link below.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/5...l-testing.html

 

F250

Thanks for the information. I'll pass on the testing, I feel the same as you, I'll stick with the high volume station(s) and hope for the best.

 

Yeah... if I had a tool bax to keep the equipment in, I might reconsider testing occasionally, but not the way things are right now with having to keep everything in the cab.

 

I think the only real solution is that the cetane ratings should be displayed on the diesel pumps. After all, we should have the right to know what we are paying for just as gasoline buyers.

 

I get better mileage if I use Shell diesel.
Engine doesn't sound any different, however.

 

I may have to give Shell diesel a try soon. Thanks for the info.

 

I will try Shell also. I live in very rural Kansas and I fill up at a BP Amoco in a town about 17 miles away. The diesel is fresh because they do a roaring trade with tractors and farm equipment including trucks. They have a pump with a quick-fill hose that allows you to dump fuel in the tank at a super-fast rate. I will try Shell and see if it makes a difference...

 

I typically go to LOVES a major truck stop,or a phillyps 66 truck stop on the other side of town and that is it for around the area fill ups! My truck does run very well on the Phillips 66 but it costs a few pennies more and it runs almost as good on the loves! If I go to Murphy I must dump in about 16 - 20 oz. of power service white jug! to get around the same performance level

 

I've haven't noticed any difference between my Shell and BP stations... just those couple of fill ups at that Kangaroo is the only indication I've personally noticed for improved mileage... at least for where I am, anyway.