Diesel fuel type

[snydzy]

I have a question with regards to refueling. This is more directed to those of us who trailer our boats regularly. I had been refueling using ultra low sulfur fuel (highway fuel , <15 ppm sulfur ), simply because of convenience. A nearby service station is now selling off-road diesel (<500 ppm sulfur), and because it's less than $2/gal, I would like to start using it. Is this going to be a problem? Technical specs from Volvo Penta allow up to 1% sulfur content in fuel, however that cuts engine oil changes down to 100 hrs .... That's half of the recommended 200 hrs with fuel usage of .05% sulfur content and lower. Is mixing "highway" fuel with "off-road" going to be an issue while transitioning? I've read sometime ago that switching back and forth between fuel types can affect how materials and elostemers/seals react and i don't want to be creating a problem. Thoughts?

 

[knotflying]

I am definitely not a chemist or diesel fuel specialist. I have used non-highway and highway fuel for 5 years. I religiously add FPPF Marine Diesel Fuel Treatment as reccommended by the Yanmar Northeast distributor. So far, knock wood, no issues.

 

[Todd]

Just watch where you are boating. Some states require highway fuel in boats. They want the tax to support boating programs and services. And it is better for the air I breath, and the Ice Caps, and rising tides, and the list goes on.