Is there a way to test? Can it be done it 2 to 5 min at a gas station so we can see if were getting crap or good fuel on the spot and go to the next station to see if they have good fuel or not?
What is the difference in good and bad. Water in the diesel or just not a good grade of diesel? Wrong additives from supplier of no additives? Do all suppliers put addives in? I've seen the same delivery tanker at just about every station around here.

 

You could pump into a clear jar and let it settle but I doubt it would tell you much. Experience running the fuel is probably a better bet. If it runs good for you stick to that station.

Almost 100% of diesel fuel base stock in a geographical area is exactly the same, came though the same pipelines and is stored in the same tanks. The difference doesn't come until it's loaded into tank trucks for delivery to individual stations when additives may or may not be added.

 

The problem is when you travel. I have the same concerns with my nissan. when your 1000 miles from home, its tough to use your regular station.

 

Use the truck stops when traveling and you need diesel. The truckers usually frequent places that pump good fuel, which is most truck stops due to the huge volume of fuel being pumped each day at such places. You'll probably also get a better price there comparatively speaking though they'll look at you funny for blocking one of their large truckstop type islands with your little ol Dodge-Cummins. If BD is available anywhere in that particular area, chances are that the truckstops will have it, which would be another reason to at least check out where the big boys fuel their rigs.
Chuck

 

TreeDr - if you are wanting to test your local station, there are several kits available for 50-75 bux, although none of them give instant results. It's very similar to an oil analysis kit - where you take a sample, send it to a lab, and they will give you a report on the fuel's quality. While some stations take delivery from different sources, it sounds like yours may be pretty regular. This won't guarantee the exact cetane or specs of each batch will be identical, but typically they are similar. It will also give you a pretty solid indication of how well the station manager takes care of the tanks as far as particulate content goes. I've used the kits from www.avlube.com a few times and was very pleased with the results.

 

When we fuel our ships we run test on the stuff before they start pumping the thousands of gallons. Specific grav needs some equip but the "clean and bright" just needs a clear glass. if it's darker then honey don't take it, if you can't read through it don't take it. ........but it would be a huge pain to do that at every fill up. just keep to the busy stations and you should be alright.