#1 Diesel fuel
#1 grade products have less energy components and are more expensive that their chief counterpart, #2 grade products. However, it rarely has problems in cold weather conditions, which is completely the opposite of #2 grade. This is because paraffin (a type of wax) has been removed from the chemical mix. The absence of this wax allows #1 diesel, the capability to operate in temperatures to -40 F.
#2 Diesel fuel
#2 grade diesel fuel is the most readily available at most gas stations throughout the country. This chemical compound holds the highest amount of energy components and lubricant properties in one mixture and offers the best fuel performance available on the market today. Most scientists agree that #2 grade diesel fuel will protect injection pumps, seals, and other important engine parts.
Typically, #2 is less expensive than #1 because it doesn’t require the same depth of refinement to produce for sale. The downside to #2 diesel is its tendency to transform into a thickened gel when the temperature drops. Most #2 diesel in the Midwest has an operational temperature down to +5 F, which often leads to hard starts and fuel gelling once single digit & sub-zero temps set in.
Blended Diesel Fuel
Blended diesel fuel is a combination of #1 and #2 fuels that, when blended together, combine for the best of both worlds. These fuels are used during the months when it becomes too cold to use #2 grade by itself. The combination of both grades of fuel should contain enough energy components and lubricant properties to reduce the chance of the chemical mix gelling in colder temperatures.
For single digits and lower temp wise, most drivers will fill their truck fuel tanks halfway or so with #2, then pull around and top off with #1
Typically, the fuel economy drops slightly if you use blended fuel, but it beats sitting on the shoulder of the highway because your truck won’t run because your fuel is gelled up, or if you have to call a wrecker, the price difference for #1 will be lots cheaper than a tow bill!
Sapp Bros.
At Sapp Bros. we like to offer options whenever it is feasible, so you can choose the right type of diesel that you want for your semi-truck. Whether it be colder or warmer, we want you to have a smooth ride on your journey.
If you’re looking for #1 diesel during the 2024/25 cold season, we have it available at these 3 of our Travel Centers.
Omaha, Nebraska
9905 Sapp Brothers Drive
Council Bluffs, Iowa
2608 South 24th Street
Lincoln, NE
6001 Cornhusker Highway
For added peace of mind, put some additive in to just to be safe!
Another way to effectively combat winter-related issues is by using diesel additives. These specialized products are designed to improve fuel quality, protect your engine, and ensure smooth operation during the harsh winter months.
Key Benefits of Diesel Additives in Winter:
- Prevents Fuel Gelling
Diesel additives, like anti-gel additives, lower the pour point of the fuel, keeping it fluid and easy to inject into the engine even in the coldest conditions. - Improves Cold Starts
Cold weather often leads to hard starting, as fuel can lose its ability to combust efficiently. Additives improve ignition by ensuring better fuel atomization, resulting in smoother and more reliable starts. - Enhances Lubrication
Fuel can become more viscous during winter, potentially leading to increased wear and tear on engine components. Additives enhance fuel lubrication, reducing friction and preventing premature engine damage. - Boosts Engine Performance
Additives can clean the fuel system, removing moisture and deposits, which helps the engine run more efficiently. Leading to improved fuel economy and reduced exhaust emissions, which can help keep your engine in top shape throughout winter.
Get Ready for Winter with our Diesel Additives
At Sapp Bros., we offer high-quality diesel additives to keep your engine running smoothly all winter long. Whether you need anti-gel, fuel system cleaners, or performance enhances, we’ve got the products you need to protect your engine in the cold. Our travel centers are supplied with several diesel additive products and our Sapp Bros. Petroleum locations can also provide bulk product.
With locations located all over the Midwest and many in Nebraska and Iowa, if you’re looking for diesel or diesel additives, there is a likely a Sapp Bros. near you. Contact any of our locations to stock up and ensure a trouble free winter for your diesel vehicle!