Knowledge is power, so if you drive a big rig or a truck that runs on diesel, it can’t hurt to know a little bit more about it. First of all, there are multiple kinds: just as gasoline is rated by octane, diesel is rated by its cetane, which indicates how easily it ignites and how quickly it burns. Logically, higher ratings equal higher efficiency.
There are two grades of standard diesel fuel (sometimes called diesel oil): Diesel #1 and Diesel #2. You don’t need to worry about differentiating their cetane levels, however, because all diesel automakers specify Diesel #2 for normal driving conditions — Diesel #1 is usually only used by truckers who need to carry heavy loads over long distances.
Diesel fuel is also measured by its viscosity; like all oils, it gets thicker and cloudier at lower temperatures, and can even become a gel and refuse to flow under extreme conditions. Diesel #1 is more efficient in cold temperatures because it naturally flows more easily. But don’t worry if you live in a place that experiences exceptionally cold and bitter winters: most service stations offer blended diesel fuel for local weather conditions.
Historically, diesel engines have been around since the 1890s. However, it wasn’t until a few decades ago that conventional diesel exhaust was linked to cancer due to exposure and considered extremely dangerous. As a result, clean diesel engines were created: with many diesel filtration systems and diesel fuel lift pumps in existence designed to reduce harmful emissions, use of diesel fuel has become considerably safer — just be sure not to inhale the fuels themselves when filling up.
Today, there are over 50 different types of diesel engines to choose from. You have the pick of the litter when it comes to your particular set up: the FASS fuel pump (fuel air separation system) is remarkable in its ability to combine both a fuel lift pump and filtration system to increase efficiency, which increases mileage. FASS fuel pumps also boost engine performance and extend the life of your diesel injection system which saves you money on repairs and replacements in the long run. They are also exceptionally clean, so you don’t have to worry about your carbon footprint or personal health.
