Tractors are a widely used machinery in the world of agriculture. A tractor is a machine that is designed to be versatile and operate a variety of agricultural activities such as plowing, tilling, planting, and harvesting. One of the biggest concerns for tractor owners is the type of fuel that is recommended for their machines. On-road diesel and off-road diesel are two options for tractor fuel. This article will address whether on-road diesel can be used in tractors.
Understanding On-Road Diesel
On-road diesel is a fuel that is designed for vehicles that operate on the road. The fuel is formulated to meet the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards and comply with the regulations in place for the reduction of emissions in vehicles that operate on the road. On-road diesel is dyed red, and it is illegal to use it for off-road purposes, including in tractors.
Can On-Road Diesel Be Used in Tractors?
The simple answer to the question is no. Tractor manufacturers do not recommend using on-road diesel in tractors. Tractors are operating off-road, and the engines are designed for this purpose. Using on-road diesel in tractors can cause several problems such as an increase in emissions, engine damage, and can even void the warranty on the tractor.
Differences Between On-Road and Off-Road Diesel
There are several differences between on-road and off-road diesel. The primary difference is the sulfur content in the fuel. On-road diesel has to meet the EPA standards, which mandate that the fuel has a low sulfur content. The sulfur content in on-road diesel is less than 15 parts per million (ppm). Off-road diesel, on the other hand, has a higher sulfur content ranging between 500 to 5000 ppm. Due to the higher sulfur content in off-road diesel, it is dyed red to prevent its usage for on-road purposes.
Conclusion
Tractors require fuel that is designed for off-road usage, and on-road diesel does not fulfill this purpose. On-road diesel is designed for vehicles that operate on the road, and its usage for off-road purposes can cause several problems. Tractor owners must use off-road diesel for their machines to avoid unnecessary repairs and maintenance and to comply with the regulations in place.