This page is dedicated to the most common questions you may have on the many issues affecting fuel today. Each subject has its own FAQ. If you don't see your specific question on the FAQ, click on the "Contact Us" link and send us your question or issue.
ULSD FAQs
What vehicles are required to use ULSD? (November 30,2006)
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All model year 2007 and later diesel powered vehicles (including, but not limited to, automobiles, light, medium, and heavy duty trucks) are designed to use ULSD fuel only. These vehicles are equipped with sulfur sensitive advanced emission control systems, thus requiring ULSD. Owners of earlier model years may use either ULSD or LSD fuel until the conversion is complete in 2010.
Some 2007 model year medium and heavy duty trucks may be equipped with 2006 engines and emissions systems, thus not requiring the use of ULSD fuel. Please contact the manufacturer of the vehicle to understand which model year engine is in your vehicle.
EPA regulations for non-road diesel fuel engines such as locomotive, marine, farm, or construction equipment will go into effect by 2012.
What is ULSD? (October 2, 2006)
- Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel is specially refined, blended diesel produced with no more than 15 parts per million (ppm) sulfur. The U.S. government has mandated refiners to produce this ULSD in an effort to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides and particulate matter from heavy-duty highway vehicles that use diesel fuel.
Can ULSD be used in any type of engine? (October 2, 2006)
- Yes, all engines can use ULSD. However, all 2007 Model Engines are required to use Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel. If not, emissions will not meet EPA requirements and there could be damage to the vehicle's emissions equipment resulting in problems with particulate filters. Evidence of misfueling could result in vehicle warranties not being honored.
When will TA have Ultra Low? (October 2, 2006)
- TA's plan is to provide access to both grades of diesel within its network of locations. We will offer Low Sulfur in those locations where available, and will similarly offer Ultra Low at most sites where available. Drivers can look for Ultra Low to start arriving at select TA sites beginning October 15, 2006. All retailers will be required to carry Ultra Low only after 2010.
How will I know which sites have Ultra Low? (October 2, 2006)
- Most locations will actually carry Ultra Low beginning October 15th with a few exceptions. TA's dispensers will be labeled as either Low Sulfur or Ultra Low Sulfur. At those sites where possible, fuel lanes will have a pole sign indicating whether the lane is Low Sulfur or Ultra Low Sulfur. In addition, we will post regular bulletins on our website, along with a network map showing what fuel is available at our sites. All Fleets will be sent regular communications alerting them to which TA locations are offering Ultra Low.
I have a Pre 2007 Model Engine. Are you going to force me to buy Ultra Low Diesel? (October 2, 2006)
- Due to TA's large facilities and our TA engineered, flexible fueling systems, we are in a position to offer both LSD and ULSD at up to 100 sites. TA will continue to carry Low Sulfur Diesel at those locations where it is regularly available; however, in order to comply with EPA regulations, we will be transitioning to all Ultra Low over several years.
When will I have to buy Ultra Low Diesel? (October 2, 2006)
- The EPA has mandated that all diesel sold after 2010 be Ultra Low; however, TA will continue to transition to Ultra Low over the next several years. Transition timing is dependent upon the continued availability of LSD and the cost differential between grades.
What about lubricity? (October 2, 2006)
- While ULSD does produce low lubricity in the refining process, TA will ensure that the proper additives are used to meet all lubricity and electrical conductivity specifications of current on-highway diesel.