DEF at the pump

[Wazz_zup]

So getting DEF by the box is getting a little expensive. I've always got it at Costco and yesterday it was $13.99 for the 2.5 gal Peak Blue DEF.
I've never bought at the pump before but we have a truck stop nearby and I could get it there, but the quality and going back and forth with the credit card hassle.
Anyway, has anybody tested the pump DEF with a refractometer before dispensing?

The Peak box I just picked up showed 33 to 33.5% on the refrac. I even returned a box to Costco that showed 34%. That one was made Sept 23, 2022. The next box (that I kept) was made Oct 4, 2022.
BTW, the refractometer was checked/calibrated to zero with distilled water.

[CX500T]

Never put a refrac on my DEF.

Always buy at truck stop. Whats the credit card hassle? 95% of truck stops I go to are pay at the pump for DEF and fuel.

TSD card covers both.

Are you checking diesel specific gravity? Haw about Gel Point? Pour Point? Cetane rating?

There is a point where its good enough. Unless you are buying from sketchy sources or making your own.

-guy who has done way too many hours testing fuel for use in test cells for engine emissions development.

[Wazz_zup]

I’ve tested nearly every box I’ve put in. 40,000 miles on the truck. But you’re right I don’t test the diesel variables you mention. But just buy from reputable places. And change fuel filters every 12-15K. If I don’t refract test, then I look for a clear jug, no lid tampering, fresh born on, and a good ol sniff test. If something goes awry, it could cost me thousands.

[CX500T]

Bad fuel or bad oil will cost you long before 1-2% off spec DEF will.

[Wazz_zup]

Well, never had any issue there. And if I can pay at the pump for DEF. I might try it. Can I at least wipe off the nozzle before inserting?
When I worked in heavy equipment, we sold a lot of DEF injectors and pumps. I’d like to minimize any contamination.

[MoonShadow_1911]

I use the TSD card as well, purchase DEF at the truck stop pumps, and (knock on wood [emoji1696]) never had a problem, over 3.5k miles towing so far.

[Wazz_zup]

I use the TSD card as well, purchase DEF at the truck stop pumps, and (knock on wood [emoji1696]) never had a problem, over 3.5k miles towing so far.

Sorry, what’s the TSD card? Truck stop diesel??

[MoonShadow_1911]

Sorry, what’s the TSD card? Truck stop diesel??

https://myopenroads.com/

It's a trucker like fuel program aimed primarily at RVers.

[CX500T]

TSD is pretty good savings.

Normal diesel price is $5.20 or so at gas stations.

Price on the pump at local truck stop is $5.299

TSD is $4.805

That's damn near 50c off the pump price at the truck stop and 40c lower than any station in 50 miles.

Issues with heavy equipment doesn't shock me. Because I've seen way too much "not DEF " put in DEF tanks to make the angry beeping stop.

[Wazz_zup]

Interesting. I’ll have to read up on it. But they want your bank routing number and social security #. Humm ok. I hope they’re reputable. Can you just load the card up off a ccard or do they ACH the money out? And it says EFS card, it’s that what the TSD card is?