Just bought a '99 CTD & was wondering if I should use an additive since I have heard the diesel here in California is not as good as other states. If so, what should I use?

 

Welcome Mark, Even though #2 Diesel can vary from refiner to refiner, the source of the crude is important to consider. The Western Area has as a major source of crude is Alaska. That would mean if the stories you've heard about bad Diesel in Calif., the same would be true for OR, WA, ID and AK.

If you don't have an Owner's Manual for your 99 Ram I would advise purchasing one. Call Dyment at 1-800-890-4038, they cost $10.00 + tax + S&H. It has information on service intervals and manufactures requirements for fuel and lubrication.

Federal requirements specify low sulfur fuel in all 50 states now. Sulfur in fuel was both bad and good for Diesels. Onnne bad point is buring sulfur makes surfuric acid which causes corrosion of metal parts. The concentration of sulfuric increases in crankcase oil over time. The good sulfur in fuel is that it acted as a lubricant in the fuel, protecting parts in the fuel system from wear.

Federal Clean Air regulations require low sulfur Diesel fuel because a major portion of the sulfuric acid produced by burning sulfur goes into the air and combined with water vapor produces acid rain.

Daimler-Chrysler does not recommend fuel conditioners or additives if you buy your #2 Diesel fuel from a reputable supplier. Reputable refineries place additives in their #2 Diesel.

If you are not sure of your source, you may want to use an additive.

 

Maybe it's my noobie brain, but the motor just seems to run smoother when I use an additive containing fuel pump lubricants. I suppose it could just be wishful thinking though. :

 

It's not just you. <br>My 99's engine sounds quieter when using Howes that when I'm using Power Service, or no additives.<br>

 

Thanks for the replies all, but I can't find Power Service or any other additive around here where I live. &gt; Where is the best place online to get it?

 

Here is some information on additive qualities. Scroll down on the page: Click Here

 

Anybody hear any good things about SOLTRON? I found it at the local fuel supply company. Also found Redline 85+, Marvel Mystery Oil &amp; Lucas. I want to buy local, but this is about all I could find. [undecided] What should I go with of the ones listed above?

 

Have you tried any truck stops. I know Williams and Petro have howes and such. -Anthony

 

Howes is the only stuff I noticed a real differance with &amp; my uncle also with a 2000 24V Car Hauler! 8)<br><br>DRecu!

 

Stanadyne is on the way. I got it at Midwest Fuel Injection. I bought one case (24 bottles) of the 8 oz. Performance Formula for $58.80 + 13.75 shipping for a total of $72.55. That is $3.02 for each bottle. That should last me between 13,200 &amp; 15,000 miles. About 1-1/2 years for me.