Quote:
Originally Posted by Statgeek
Not specifically the OP's question, but Pilot stations threw me for a loop the first time I used one when I had to choose between "refer" and "tractor" diesel. Not knowing what they were, I assumed that "tractor" was for farm tractors, which I assumed wouldn't have the same strict EPA standards, and that I should use "refer." But then... what the heck does "refer" mean?
Upon further investigation I learned that "tractor" referred to "tractor-trailers," or what we all think of as "trucks" or "18-wheelers." This is the fuel we should be using in our RV's.
"Refer" is an abbreviation for refrideration, and it is used for trucks that carry refrigerated cargo, like groceries. They have a separate diesel engine that runs the refrigeration. That fuel is died red (I believe) and it is illegal to use that fuel to operate your truck or RV engine. Apparently there are check-stations here and there where they do a dip check and if they detect the red die, you can get a huge fine. The fuel apparently works fine as an over the road diesel fuel, but it is not taxed the same rate, thus the penalty for using it.
My "research" is all online, so I'm happy to hear if I got this right, kinda right, or wrong from anyone who knows more than I do.
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You're in the ballpark but one misconception, refer fuel sold at the same pump as on road fuel is the exact same fuel.
The only difference is you are not taxed the same on fuel you purchase for your refer unit. And you are expected to put that untaxed fuel in a separate tank from you main tank. This fuel is not dyed red.
For the most part, fuel that is dyed, is the fuel that is delivered directly to the farmer as off road diesel for his farm equipment or heaters only.
This is the only separation of refer fuel and tractor fuel, as tractor in this case refers to tractor truck, on road fuel.
Dyed fuel is a different blend of fuel in some parts of the country. And is similar to the old #2 diesel, just red now for identification.