Does anyone know the differnce between #1 and #2 diesel gas? And could I run home heating oil in my VW Diesel

Answer 1

The refining companies are well aware of the starting problems associated with diesels in cold weather, and they usually “winterize” their diesel fuel by mixing 15-20 percent No. 1 diesel with the conventional No. 2 diesel in cold climates. This improves the volatility of the fuel and reduces the cloud point to slightly lower temperatures. At this point, we should discuss the differences between the two grades of diesel fuel. Diesel No.1 and No.2 are the two common grades of diesel fuel. No. 2 diesel is by far the most widely used since it provides the most energy per gallon for improved power and mileage, and the highest lubricity for the fuel injection pump. Since it is a heavier distillate than No. 1 diesel, No.2 diesel is usually a few cents per gallon cheaper too. Some diesel engines are designed to operate specifically on No. 1 diesel, especially if the engine will be subjected to frequent starting and stopping, but No.1 diesel has several disadvantages. First, it provides less lubricity than No. 2 diesel, which can prove troublesome for some fuel injection pumps, and second, it contains roughly 95 percent of the heat energy of No. 2 diesel. And as we just mentioned, it’s a little more expensive too.

http://www.bankspower.com/tech_aboutdieselfuel.cfm

They differ from standard Road Diesel #2 in that road tax has been applied, no red dye has been added, and there is a specification regarding ash and/or sulphur content.
Residual fuel oil is less useful because it is so viscous that it has to be heated, which requires a special heating system, before use and it contains relatively high amounts of pollutants, particularly sulfur, which forms sulfur dioxide upon combustion. However, its undesirable properties make it very cheap. In fact, it is the cheapest liquid fuel available. Since it requires heating before use, residual fuel oil cannot be used in road vehicles, boats or small ships, as the heating equipment takes up valuable space and makes the vehicle heavier. Heating the oil is also a delicate procedure, which is inappropriate to do on small, fast moving vehicles.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_oil

Answer 2

#1 diesel has an additive that prevents gelling and moisture in the colder (winter) climates. #2 is appropriate for anything down to 20F or so, and for summer use.

You can run heating oil in your VW, just like you can run french fry oil. The problem is that this is a lesser grade of fuel and will eventually cause engine problems. It is also illegal, as no vehicle use tax has been paid on the heating oil.

thetravelinggardener is incorrect. Road use tax is paid on both #1 and #2 diesel. What he is referring to is Off Road Use diesel, which is usually #2 grade, dyed red for use in construction, farming, etc.

Answer 3

Home and car diesel are made up of different components. Imagine if your put diesel gas in your home heating unit? If you do make sure your will is finished. Id contact the manufacturer to find out why they suggest you don't.

Answer 4

#1 & #2....nope, i have no idea.

However, the answer to question #2 is... probably, but you'd get really poor mileage. Home heating oil is a bit thinner than diesel fuel. I only this because a family member actually heats his home with diesel fuel... we experimented a bit...

Answer 5

I believe #2 is heating oil and #1 is diesel, one has anti freezing additives in it and I'm not sure which one but you don't have to pay road taxes on house heating oil which makes it cheaper but if you use it in your vehicle it will smoke like crazy but it will run.

Answer 6

#1 and 2 are different grades of refinement. You can run deisel in your furnace, but not the alternate. Home heating(stove oil) has too many impurities and is thicker than deisel fuel.

Answer 7

# 1 diesel is for taxed highway driving
#2 diesel is for agriculture inplement use and is tinted red in color.