Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) First Fill up

[tcorbitt]

While in Vermont this weekend, we ran into our first ULSD (15PPM or less) fuel. Before leaving I ran the tank low (2 gals remained), and filled up. After returning home and refueling, measured the fuel usage at 13.5 MPG over 270 miles. Closely monitoring our fuel usage this spring (Completely stock, 06 F350 4WD Crew, 8K-13K miles on the ODO, with 342PHT Mountianeer in tow, est 19K lbs combined load) over the last 3,200 towing miles, we consistently saw 12-12.5 MPG. (When not towing, our mileage is not as consistent; 15-18.5 MPGs.) Not sure if the MPG increase was just luck or not, but I was happy that the ULSD fuel did not appear to decrease the mileage during this first experience.

Power did not seem any different with the ULSD. Tailpipe smoke appeared non-existent in this limited sample. When pulling a steep on-ramp near our in-laws from a stop, we normally see a noticable trail of black smoke. Yesterday, I climbed this on-ramp as usual, and did not see any indication of black smoke. Again, a very limited sample, but having pulled this hill 5-6 times this spring, this was the first time I pulled and could not see any black smoke.

Temps in the mid 80's this weekend may be a factor as well, although most of our towing this spring has been done in the 50-70 degree range, I don't think the 80's would be a huge factor.

Fuel price not a factor. We paid $2.96, which is about average for diesel the New England area this month.

Hopefully this limited experience with positive results will continue to be the norm as the fuel supplies in the country being to switch over to ULSD. I am back to LSD (500PPM or less) now since I have not seen any ULSD fuel in central MA yet.

Tim