As diesel fuel becomes more popular, off-road vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as well. But will off road diesel hurt vehicles? This blog post investigates the risks of using diesel fuel in off-road vehicles.
Along the way, the blog will also discuss the effect of diesel fuel on vehicles and how to protect them from the damage that diesel fuel can cause.
So whether you’re planning on taking your off-road vehicle on a fun weekend camping trip or tackling some serious off-road terrain, be sure to read this blog post first!
Before we continue our discussion if you want to get more information about off-road diesel, you can read this article: What is Off Road Diesel – A Complete Guide
Will Off Road Diesel Hurt Vehicle
Will off-road diesel hurt my truck?
Many people are curious about the potential danger of using diesel off-road. The short answer is that it won’t damage your vehicle, but there are some precautions that should be taken.
As it isn’t supposed to be offered for use in on-road vehicles, using it is prohibited. If the authorities find out that you’ve been using it, you’ll be hit with a large fine.
Off-road diesel (red diesel) is basically just diesel that has dye to indicate a high sulfur content, such as Solvent Red 26 or 164. To be safe, you should disregard the red hue and ignore the warning. Even if you are not concerned about the risks it poses to the environment, avoiding it will benefit your wallet.
Red diesel should never be used, even if the tax break sounds alluring. Most cities have an average tax rate of 7% to 9%, making a $100 journey only cost $107 to $109. You would pay $100 in addition to the $1,000 punishment if you were found guilty of the offense. Whatever your perspective, $109 is a lot better than $1,100!
You must have a valid reason for wanting to use red diesel fuel in order to obtain a permit. The best justifications for obtaining a permit are in the fields of agriculture, construction, and the off-road industry. They do not, however, ensure your access. Always follow the required legal processes prior to utilizing it.
A word of caution: whenever you purchase diesel, be sure to check the fuel source. Some pumps have a green handle and employ red dye.
Despite the fact that the handle and color are meant to match, mistakes are made and the correct color is sometimes misplaced. Check the labels before filling them up at a new location to avoid getting fined.
Off-road diesel vs. on-road diesel
Common on-road vehicles are referred to as “on-road diesel vehicles.” Any vehicle with a U.S. road license must utilize on-road diesel that is available at gas stations.
Tractors, bulldozers, and generators are examples of equipment or vehicles that are classified as off-road diesel. This type of diesel cannot be used in on-road cars because it is prohibited.
Red-dyed diesel vs. green-colored diesel
Red diesel is not truly green, but green diesel is more environmentally beneficial. It employs a petroleum refinement technique to chemically resemble refined oils while consuming fewer fossil fuels and emitting fewer greenhouse gases. Green diesel contains microalgae, waste grease, and feedstock that is high in lipids.
Red diesel is actually colored red, and due to the greater sulfur content, it is obvious that the fuel is intended for off-road vehicles and equipment. In contrast to on-road diesel and consumer motor fuel, red-dyed diesel fuel is not taxed.
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Conclusion
Your truck won’t be harmed by off-road diesel. It’s simply manufactured with an artificial red dye inside and a slightly greater sulfur concentration. However, you’ll typically face criminal prosecution and a fine of at least $1,000. In other words, while your bank account won’t be damaged, your truck won’t either.
If you’re not sure if off-road diesel fuel is right for your vehicle, consult a mechanic or fuel specialist.