Lubricants 101 for Beginners

Lubrication is key to keeping machinery running smoothly and efficiently.  They help protect surfaces and prevent parts from being damaged by heat, dust, and friction over time. They are essential in maintaining the investment of buying valuable pieces of equipment.  Lubricants affect our cars, doorknobs, locks, parts, gears, and pretty much everything mechanical that we use in our homes and jobs. Since lubrication is such an important component in keeping everything moving, it’s a best practice to know the different types of lubricants that are out there, and which one works best for your needs.

 

In this blog, we’ll be covering the 4 types of lubricants, and what situations call for these different types to be used.

Oils, Greases, Penetrating Lubricants, and Dry Lubricants

1. Oils

The most common industry lubricant is found in plants, factories, and our cars. They can be based in mineral, synthetic, or vegetable oil. These thin liquids come in different weights, also referred to as viscosities. When measuring oil, the general rule is that the lower the weight number, the thinner the oil. For industrial uses, many use mineral oil with a lower viscosity. They are less toxic, less expensive, and easier to dispose of. Mineral oil is heavily refined compared to synthetic oil. Synthetic oil is man-made and often has additives to withstand high temperatures and prevent sludge. Therefore, mechanics promote using synthetic oils because they keep your engine cleaner for longer. Here is a list of oils Jubitz offers by Chevron!

When to use oil:
On car oil changes, hinges, and tool maintenance. Oil doesn’t have the resistance that grease has, so it creates a smooth buffer consistency that can move between parts fluidly. It’s best used when you want to lubricate machinery, but don’t want to take anything apart.

2. Greases

The second most common form of lubricant is grease.  It is made by mixing a base oil + thickener + additional lubricant additives.  Grease functions generally the same as oil, but has a different texture, creating a stickiness that helps it adhere to surfaces better. It’s ideal for high pressure systems, with medium speed and medium temperature.  Though grease does not stand up to high heat as easily as oil, it does provide a beneficial barrier from water and debris. It also comes in textures ranging from semifluid (ketchup) to very firm (pudding).

When to use grease: 

On ball bearings, gears, and linkages.  Grease is best used when you have a heavy load and need it to stick to a surface for a long time.  It can also be used as a sealant, which works when you want to keep water or dust particles out.

3. Penetrating Lubricants

This type of lubricant works best when you’ve got years of rust built up on nuts, bolts, or any fasteners. Its main use is for infiltrating tiny cracks, and breaking things up. This lubricant’s low viscosity allows fluids to seep into the grooves and crevices to break up bolts that won’t budge. They are made up of a lubricant and solvent mixture that helps break down corrosion and cleans the metal underneath. They can remove the residue of tar, grease, adhesives, and rust. After using a penetrating lubricant, they leave behind a temporary, thin, moisture-repellent residue to prevent further corrosion.

When to use penetrating lubricants:

Great for bike chains, hinges, electrical terminals, and casters.  Because of its thinner quality, it’s not advised for ball bearings, or parts that need a longer-lasting lubricant.

4. Dry lubricants

This last lubricant is a solid lubricant to coat surfaces with a dry film or powder that helps reduce wear on machinery. It’s also a great alternative when you can’t use oil or grease.

Dry lubricants generally come in a spray form that will eventually evaporate. They don’t build dirt and grime on a wet residue, and can withstand heat without breaking down or dripping. The most common dry lubricant is graphite, which offers quick drying solutions with long-lasting benefits. It acts like most lubricants, but without the mess.

When to use dry lubricants:  On threaded rods, locks, conveyor belts, hoists, and gaskets.  It creates a film that covers wherever sprayed, and also creates a lubricating feel that can loosen stubborn parts.

Jubitz offers a wide variety of industrial and mobile hydraulic system applications. See the products we carry by Chevron and Philips 66.

Sulfur in Diesel: ULSD, Biodiesel and More

Sulfur is a staple in all diesel products available, but what does it mean for you? Is it good for your vehicle? Let’s take a look at the different levels of sulfur in diesel products and how it affects your equipment.

What is Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel?

Since 2010, U.S. regulations require all pumps to dispense ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) instead of low- sulfur diesel (LSD). Along with this, all vehicles made after 2007 are only compatible with ULSD due to the reduced sulfur content. ULSD contains 97% less sulfur compared to LSD, which makes the diesel safe to use with newer emission control mechanisms in modern vehicles. Higher sulfur content is harmful to these systems. Sulfur is not only bad for engines, but also is one of the leading pollutants in diesel exhaust.

 

Is Biodiesel Ultra-Low Sulfur?

Biodiesel is a fuel made from plant or animal products and results in less pollution than traditional diesel. It must meet the same ULSD standard for total sulfur to comply with EPA regulations. Therefore, biodiesel generally it contains even less sulfur than ultra-low sulfur diesel. While there are small differences between biodiesel and traditional diesel, they do not pose a danger to your engine when you go to the pump. In Oregon, all diesel sold at the pump is at least 5 percent biodiesel (also known as B5).

Is Off-Road Diesel Ultra-Low Sulfur?

Off-road diesel, or dyed diesel, is also ultra-low sulfur. It still complies with the EPA environmental requirements and will not damage engines. However, do not fuel your highway vehicles with it, as it can only be used with equipment that will not be driven on public roads. This equipment can include generators, construction equipment or other diesel-powered machines. To learn more about off-road diesel, check out our blog about clear and red-dyed diesel.

If you still have questions about what diesel products are right for your vehicles, reach out to our staff at 800-523-0600 or fuel@jubitz.com and they’ll be happy to answer any further questions you have.

Find Yourself the Right Trucker Headset

Aside from and ELD and motor vehicle, one of the only other pieces of equipment a trucker needs to have on the road is a trucker headset. States are responsible for regulating the use of headsets, earphones, or headphones, while driving. AAA’s Digest of Motor Laws reports that while some states have no laws permitting the use of headsets while operating a motor vehicle, others allow only one-ear headset devices to protect driver and pedestrian safety.

Interfering with a driver’s focus and ability to hear their surrounding environment can be dangerous. Distracted driving can cause accidents and prevent drivers from noticing emergency vehicles and other critical surroundings. So, even if you’re a trucker driving even in a state without headset rules, recognize the seriousness of distracted driving and consider opting for a single-ear device.

Man wearing trucker headset
Image from BlueParrott

For those who spend significant time on the road, a complete ban on headsets would be problematic. Thankfully, the one-ear exception allows for easy, necessary communication for truckers while also prioritizing safety. But, after dismissing two-ear headset models what should you look for in a trucker headset? We explore attributes and performance indicators for on the road headsets designed for trucking and fleets.

Sound Quality

Even if you aren’t a professional trucker, you probably know how difficult it can be to hear people when in a moving vehicle! Noise cancellation power proves essential in trucker headsets as it reduces the level of ambient noise you hear when using the headset. At the Jubitz Truck and Service Center, we carry BlueParrott trucker headsets. Three of their B-series line of models have 96% noise cancellation power!

Battery Life

Truckers on the road for hours upon hours require a headset with serious battery power. As battery life will be impacted by the headset’s usage, even if a headset has a long standby time, you want to ensure you have ample talk time. Headset usage typically sees a mix of standby time and talk time in a day. Choose a model that has an adequate ratio of talk time and standby time that will fit your needs.

Wearing Style and Weight

Headsets, as opposed to earphones or headphones, have a single, over-the-ear design that meets driving regulations. The wearing style refers to how you physically wear the device. The most common styles include over-the-head, around-the-neck, and convertible. All are made to be functional and comfortable so it’s more of a personal preference as opposed to performance indicator. The weight of the headset is also something to consider. Over-the-head models tend to be slightly heavier and around-the-neck models must be more sensitive of the neck as it bears the brunt of the headset weight. While the neck and shoulders are filled with strong muscles, you don’t want to strain or overuse them.

Voice Control and Bluetooth

Technology continues to change ordinary experiences like talking on the phone. BlueParrott’s glossary explains that Bluetooth is “a standard for the short-range wireless connection” of electronic devices. Gone are the days of wired connections and tangled cords. Instead, Bluetooth powers connectivity and enables tools like voice control. Using spoken commands to control headset functions allows for a more hands-free experience and improves safety.

Smartphone systems are also frequently included with software that allows the device to be voice controlled. Headsets with voice control are becoming more common, but currently considered a more premium feature. Voice control capabilities will typically increase the range of wireless connectivity. Increased range means you can stray farther from the device your headset connects with which isn’t always a necessity but can be a plus.

Man wearing trucker headset
Image from BlueParrott

A high quality trucker headset is an important investment. With so many trucker headsets available, it’s important to consider the many attributes and features. If it’s a good product, manufacturers typically offer to provide an extended warranty. Headsets are no exception here! Make sure you’ve purchased one that can take all the bumps and knocks of the road. Sound quality, battery life, style, weight, along with Bluetooth and voice control capabilities are all considerations to contemplate. While this list is not all-encompassing, it hopefully gives you a good starting point! When you’re ready to buy, call us at (503) 289-9645 or come into the Jubitz Truck Service Center and let our professionals get you set up with a BlueParrott, Rand McNally, or other headset.

Options for Fueling Construction Sites

Fueling construction sites keeps your job site powered! Without refueling, machinery can’t operate, leaving your site at a standstill and costing you time and money. Between deadlines, equipment upkeep, managing employees, and the logistics of building materials, there’s no shortage of responsibilities. And on top of this all, every job can be drastically different and require a whole new approach. Luckily, there are options to best maximize your resources to fuel your construction equipment and keep work going.

On-site Fuel Tank

An on-site fuel tank is the most convenient for hard to reach construction sites working with heavy machinery. Installing a large fuel tank on the job site allows you to refuel machinery at your convenience. When the tank is near empty, simply have it refueled by your chosen fuel provider and continue on your way! While it is the most convenient option, there is a security concern in having a fuel tank on the site and easily accessible. A fuel tank is also better suited for large, long-term construction projects, as the tanks themselves can be expensive and more semi-permanent than a job might require.

Mobile Fuel Delivery Service

Another on-site fueling option is a mobile refueling delivery service. Like fuel tanks, this brings fuel to your site so you can refuel machinery on the job. Instead of a tank on site, a fuel truck will come to you and fill your vehicles. This offers the convenience of an on-site tank without the long-term commitment. You also will no longer have to worry about physically hosting a fuel tank as the mobile truck will replace it.

The convenience of mobile fuel delivery service is its biggest perk. At Jubitz, we serve customers throughout the Northwest with a strong focus on SW Washington and Portland Metropolitan area. As our customer, you can customize your own delivery schedule to fit the needs of your site. You can also call us around the clock and get in touch with someone who understands your unique fueling needs. Sometimes we can even add deliveries to our route the same day or have products ready to pick up at our warehouse within an hour!

Jubitz fuel delivery truck

Cardlock Fueling Solutions

Finally, there are commercial cardlock sites. These sites allow you to monitor how much fuel you are using, refuel on your own time, and access to thousands of convenient fueling locations within your network. Many of these locations also carry off-road diesel and dyed

diesel, the usual fuel types for construction equipment. These cardlock sites can best suit equipment that does not stay on the jobsite, trucks transporting materials, and any other kind of equipment that will be moved back and forth.

CFN station in Vancouver

 

While there is no one all-around best option for fueling construction sites, you can find the  solution that best suits your job’s needs. Due to the ever-changing nature of construction jobs, you’ll want to find a fuel provider who can work with you to accommodate your needs. Finding a reliable and trustworthy provider is easy! Reach out to Jubitz to learn more about our fuel, refueling options and cardlock programs today. Give us a call at 1-800-523-0600 or reach out to us here.

The Basics of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF)

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is becoming a necessity for diesel truck owners as older vehicles, pre-2010 trucks, grow obsolete. All new trucks are required to use this fluid so that their emissions control systems will work. This begs the question, what exactly is DEF and what does it do?

Understanding DEF Use

While DEF is not new, it has been recently made far more important for diesel drivers. DEF is the main companion to the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems that were mandated by the EPA. Simply put, these two pieces work together to help reduce dangerous gases, like carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, from polluting the air. Instead, an SCR-equipped engine will first catch particulates through a filter, and then spray the remaining exhaust with the DEF. The exhaust and diesel exhaust fluid are then changed from those pollutants into harmless water and nitrogen. With all these steps in place, those large black exhaust clouds are a thing of the past!

Buying DEF

Even though DEF has become mandatory for those driving new trucks, it is still not very convenient to refill it. Usually, one would find DEF only available in 2.5-gallon jugs at gas stations or truck stops around the country. This can be inconvenient and can end up costing you more at the end of the day. Along with these traditional options, Jubitz is happy to offer DEF at the pump, making refilling as easy and convenient as refueling your tank. Now, drivers can have options that best suit them, whether stocking up on DEF or filling up their tank.

Tips for Fleets

We currently offer these services at the Jubitz Truck Stop for retail customers and are expanding access to DEF at the pump to our cardlock customers as well.  DEF is now available at our sites in Washougal, Vancouver, and Portland. We also deliver bulk DEF in drums and totes in the greater Portland Metro area and Southwest Washington.

Event Recap: Driver Appreciation Day 2020

Jubitz’s annual Driver Appreciation Day took place this past Wednesday outside of the Cascade Grill. Truckers that came to the event with their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) received a free lunch, swag bags and the same WCCE hospitality that has earned Jubitz their title as “World’s Classiest Truck Stop.”

Despite the challenges that COVID-19 (and a bit of rain) brought to the table, we put together what we hope was a memorable and sincere gesture for truck drivers. Large tents were propped up outdoors to allow for adequate social distancing.

driver appreciation day 2020 lunches

driver appreciation day 2020 swag table


Jubitz appreciates truck drivers 365 days a year

As a travel center that has grown exponentially over the years, our workforce and customers have also grown to be incredibly diverse. We got a chance to hear individual driver’s experiences on the road, and in return shared to them why they’re so important to our economy. Here are just some of the reasons that our employees appreciate truck drivers…

 

“I’ve worked with drivers over the last decade, and I’m reminded constantly of their humor, hard-work ethic, friendliness, mobile tech-savviness, and stories. They are truly the eyes and the heart of the open road.”

– William, IT Services Manager

 

“They are the underappreciated, under-recognized backbone of society and human culture to this day – not just in America, but globally. We rely on drivers with taking on the arduous task of ensuring companies keep moving and people continue to go about their daily lives unhindered. Since I was a little kid I always (and still do) look up to them as the backstage heroes; keeping the lights on. This is why I truly appreciate drivers.”

– CJ, Dispatch Manager

 

“Truck drivers bring us everything, everything that we eat, everything that keeps us entertained, everything has been on a truck at some point. Without truck drivers we wouldn’t have anything. Drivers are essential.”

– Gina, Driver Services Shift Leader

 


Get to know our sponsors

DAT Solutions

DAT operates the largest truckload freight marketplace in North America. Transportation brokers, carriers, news organizations and industry analysts rely on DAT for market trends and data insights derived from 270 million freight matches (2018 est.) and a database of $57 billion of market transactions.

 

Lynco Products

Lynco Products is a privately owned full-service distributor, manufacturer, and importer of impulse, convenience, automotive and general goods products.

 

Pacific Northwest Truck Museum Logo

Pacific Northwest Truck Museum

In the Pacific Northwest Truck Museum, you will see some of the great working vehicles that helped develop the Pacific Northwest. These wonderfully restored antique trucks, parts and memorabilia also show the significant and unique innovations in the development of trucks brought about by the longer distances and rough terrain of this part of the country.

 

DAS Companies, Inc.

DAS Companies, Inc. is a full service marketing and global supply chain portfolio company based in Palmyra, PA. Privately-held, DAS Companies, designs, imports, and distributes automotive accessories, travel merchandise, and mobile electronics that add safety, convenience, comfort and leisure to on-the-go consumers, through a series of channel partnerships including Travel Centers, Heavy Duty Trucking Centers, and Electronics & Specialty Retailers.

 

West Coast Coffee

West Coast Coffee

West Coast Coffee’s specialty grade coffee is the highest quality available, utilizing sustainable production and ethical labor practices. They over-see the supply chain, from the farms, through the mills, to their roasting facilities, and to their partners– directly from seed to cup.

 

Daimler

Daimler Trucks

America’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, Daimler Trucks N.A. includes Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas Built Buses, Detroit, Freightliner Custom Chassis, SelecTrucks, and Alliance Truck Parts.

 

Strive Workplace Solutions

Strive Workplace Solutions

The Strive story started in 1967 in Tigard, Oregon as Southwest Office Supply, a family owned and locally operated printing and office products reseller. Over the next 50 years, through organic growth and acquisitions, they have expanded to six locations in three states.

 

Sysco

Sysco Portland

Sysco Portland delivers the safest, highest quality foodservice products, along with industry leading customer support and ecommerce tools.

 

Oregon Trucking Associations

Oregon Trucking Associations (OTA)

Oregon Trucking Associations (OTA) is a membership-based organization has been advocating, educating, and promoting the trucking industry for over 80 years.

 

Washington Trucking Associations

Washington Trucking Associations (WTA)

The WTA is the Washington trucking industry’s information center and spokesperson; providing services tailored to its trucking industry members and keeping them informed.

 

McCoy Freightliner

The McCoy Freightliner Family of dealerships was founded in 1958 by Robert McCoy Sr. in Shullsburg, Wisconsin. Today the company is still family owned and operated. For over 60 years, the JMR Group has offered new and used medium and heavy duty trucks, expert service, an extensive parts inventory, and helpful financing options.

 

Harbor Wholesale

Harbor Wholesale

Harbor is your comprehensive wall to wall single source distributor of food for people on the go. They offer the best products and services in the industry, delivered on-time, intact and within the appropriate temperature range.

Jubitz Will Celebrate Truck Drivers at Annual Driver Appreciation Day, With Adjustments due to Coronavirus Pandemic

On September 23, Jubitz Truck Stop and Travel Center will host a free event to celebrate the hard work of the truck drivers! These folks transport more than 70 percent of America’s freight. This year, as the coronavirus pandemic has made a huge impact on our world. This has helped people become aware of the importance of truck drivers. Our annual event will be different than previous years. Social distancing requirements will be implemented. We made sure the regulations won’t interfere with us thanking truck drivers for their essential roles.

 


What you need to know

When: Wednesday, September 23 9am-1pm

Where: Outside Cascade Grill at Jubitz

What: Free boxed lunch, swag bags and big prizes

Be Prepared: Face coverings and social distancing required

RSVP on Facebook here

 


America’s truck drivers are among the essential workers who are keeping products moving. Whether it’s delivering to stores, restaurants, hospitals or elsewhere, truck drivers have helped countless organizations throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Their hard work has been recognized through the #ThankATrucker hashtag and even at an event at the White House. It’s estimated that grocery stores would be empty within two or three days if truck drivers all stopped working.

Previous Driver Appreciation Days have included a barbecue, vendors, games and more. This year’s event will be an outdoor boxed lunch giveaway for anyone with a CDL from 9am-1pm or until supplies run out. Truck drivers will receive swag bags full of prizes. They will also have the chance to win gift cards that will be sent out by mail. Every aspect of the event will prioritize safety and social distancing. Masks will be required.

 


Get to know our sponsors

DAT Solutions

DAT operates the largest truckload freight marketplace in North America. Transportation brokers, carriers, news organizations and industry analysts rely on DAT for market trends and data insights derived from 270 million freight matches (2018 est.) and a database of $57 billion of market transactions.

 

Lynco Products

Lynco Products is a privately owned full-service distributor, manufacturer, and importer of impulse, convenience, automotive and general goods products.

 

Pacific Northwest Truck Museum Logo

Pacific Northwest Truck Museum

In the Pacific Northwest Truck Museum, you will see some of the great working vehicles that helped develop the Pacific Northwest. These wonderfully restored antique trucks, parts and memorabilia also show the significant and unique innovations in the development of trucks brought about by the longer distances and rough terrain of this part of the country.

 

DAS Companies, Inc.

DAS Companies, Inc. is a full service marketing and global supply chain portfolio company based in Palmyra, PA. Privately-held, DAS Companies, designs, imports, and distributes automotive accessories, travel merchandise, and mobile electronics that add safety, convenience, comfort and leisure to on-the-go consumers, through a series of channel partnerships including Travel Centers, Heavy Duty Trucking Centers, and Electronics & Specialty Retailers.

 

West Coast Coffee

West Coast Coffee

West Coast Coffee’s specialty grade coffee is the highest quality available, utilizing sustainable production and ethical labor practices. They over-see the supply chain, from the farms, through the mills, to their roasting facilities, and to their partners– directly from seed to cup.

 

Daimler

Daimler Trucks

America’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturer, Daimler Trucks N.A. includes Freightliner, Western Star, Thomas Built Buses, Detroit, Freightliner Custom Chassis, SelecTrucks, and Alliance Truck Parts.

 

Strive Workplace Solutions

Strive Workplace Solutions

The Strive story started in 1967 in Tigard, Oregon as Southwest Office Supply, a family owned and locally operated printing and office products reseller. Over the next 50 years, through organic growth and acquisitions, they have expanded to six locations in three states.

 

Sysco

Sysco Portland

Sysco Portland delivers the safest, highest quality foodservice products, along with industry leading customer support and ecommerce tools.

 

Oregon Trucking Associations

Oregon Trucking Associations (OTA)

Oregon Trucking Associations (OTA) is a membership-based organization has been advocating, educating, and promoting the trucking industry for over 80 years.

 

Washington Trucking Associations

Washington Trucking Associations (WTA)

The WTA is the Washington trucking industry’s information center and spokesperson; providing services tailored to its trucking industry members and keeping them informed.

 

McCoy Freightliner

The McCoy Freightliner Family of dealerships was founded in 1958 by Robert McCoy Sr. in Shullsburg, Wisconsin. Today, the company is still family owned and operated. The JMR Group offers new and used medium and heavy duty trucks, expert service, an extensive parts inventory and helpful financing options.

 

Harbor Wholesale

Harbor Wholesale

Harbor is your comprehensive wall to wall single source distributor of food for people on the go. They offer the best products and services in the industry, delivered on-time, intact and within the appropriate temperature range.

Top 6 Reasons for Truck Brake Failure

Each year, more than 4 million roadside inspections are conducted for commercial vehicles. While it is critical to the safety of yourself and others to keep your truck up to code at all times, many drivers get hit with brake-related violations more than anything else. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) will conduct their annual Brake Safety Week from August 23rd to the 29th.

 

How truck drivers can prepare for Brake Safety Week

Brake-related violations account for almost 15% of all commercial vehicle violations in 2019, and an ounce of prevention will keep your truck on the road rather than being parked by inspectors. The first step is knowing what to look for. These are the top six brake issues that truckers come across…

 

1. Brake imbalance

Simply put, imbalance in your truck’s braking system is when one or more brakes are exerting more or less force than the others. This happens when you have mismatched parts, or an error in the pneumatic system applying air pressure unevenly. Brake imbalance is one the most common causes of jackknifing your vehicle

2. Brake overheating

Overheating of your brakes can sometimes be a result of the above point, but the top culprit is drivers using poor braking techniques while traveling downhill. This greatly reduces the life of your brakes, and can cause temporary malfunction to control your vehicle speed.

3. Faulty suspension

A misconfigured suspension system can wreak havoc on your brakes by causing similar issues to brake imbalance. Softening your suspension could reduce stress on brakes and also result in a smoother driving experience on the road.

4. Trailer overload

Even the best kept, newest brakes on a truck cannot withstand excessively heavy loads. The breaking distance required becomes far too great, resulting in unnecessary on your braking system. Even one trailer overload is enough to cause brake failure. Don’t risk endangering the public highways for a load larger than your truck can handle.

5. Hose chafing and kinking

Last year, the CVSA discovered chafing and kinking of brake tubes as a top violation.

6. Lubrication

Any vehicle that undergoes a harsh winter should reapply lubricant both before and after the season. Inadequate lubrication of your caliper pins, clips, mounting tabs, and brake back sides can make your brakes wear much sooner than expected.

 

Truck maintenance is ongoing

Faulty breaks don’t happen overnight. It’s often due to an oversight. Make truck maintenance a regular procedure so that you are always in the clear with DOT regulations. Violations can increase your CSA score by as much as 10 points, becoming a not-so-pretty ding on your record. Fleet managers can take the initiative as well, by implementing a more robust fleet safety programChecking your breaks with each oil change is a great habit that’ll save you big time down the road.


The Jubitz Truck Service Center is open 7 days a week so that you pass brake inspections before August 23rd.
Dyed vs. Clear Diesel: What’s the difference?

Diesel runs the world. No, really. There’s a need for diesel, and other oil alternatives, in countless applications from commercial trucking to off-road agriculture. We’re often asked the key differences. So, we’re going to answer one of the most common questions our fuel consultants get!

 

The Difference Between Dyed and Clear Diesel

Whenever you’re at the pump, you often only see one kind of diesel oil. However, if you have ever needed fuel for anything else then you quickly realize there are more appropriate diesel options depending on the usage.

 

What is clear diesel?

 

Available at most fuel stops across the United States, clear diesel – also called regular, auto, highway or on-road diesel – is the most common option. Clear diesel is required for any vehicle with a diesel motor licensed by the state for on-road usage. It is legally taxable because of its use on public roads and highways, and has a low sulfur content to meet EPA standards.

 

The history of clear diesel in the United States.

 

By 2010, the EPA had officially required all on-road diesel fuels to be Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD). Low-Sulfur Diesel No. 2, a less environmentally friendly fuel, was used before 2008. ULSD is a cleaner-burning fuel than Low-Sulfur Diesel, containing 97% less sulfur and improving the longevity of motors previously damaged by the higher sulfur content.

 

Is on-road diesel always clear?

 

While on-road diesel has historically been a clear fluid, it isn’t uncommon now to come across ULSD fuels with a green or blue tint. The diesel oil is still mostly transparent. Many oil refineries now add a slight tint to their diesel that changes color over time, which determines freshness.

More on this next, as there are critical differences between a tinted clear diesel and dyed diesel.

 

What is red dyed diesel?

 

Otherwise known as off-road or non-highway diesel, this fuel option is strictly for agricultural usage or vehicles not licensed to be driven on public roads. Red dyed diesel is subject to the same pricing factors as clear diesel, such as location and fuel scarcity, though it is not taxed in the United States.

 

Is red dyed diesel illegal?

 

The United States dyes off-road diesel red for the very reason of checking taxed vs. non-taxed fuel. Since off-road diesel is non-taxed, being caught with it in your commercial vehicle is considered tax evasion. You’ll be charged with large fines at the very least, and potentially facing a felony.

 

Can you mix red diesel and normal diesel?

 

While the effects of mixing fuels will vary per vehicle, this is also illegal to do so. It’s worth mentioning that clear and dyed diesel perform the same with nominal differences. Only in the case that you’re using a high sulfur diesel in your commercial vehicles, which we strongly advise against, would you potentially damage your motor.

 

Picking the Right Fuel for Your Usage

Knowing the diesel oil choice for your commercial car or truck is straight forward; you can only use taxable clear diesel permitted by the government. Still want  to learn more? Check out our second blog on this topic here. For farm owners or construction companies that have tractors and generators, however, we recommend speaking with a fuel consultant that can better inform you of your options based on your specific needs.

Speak with a Jubitz Fuel Consultant or sign up with Fleet Services today.

The 5 Best Load Boards for Truck Drivers

If you’re a trucker without freight broker authority, load boards are a great resource. Load boards allow you to connect you with direct shippers and contacts, earn revenue and gain experience in the industry. These online matching systems allow shippers, brokers and carriers to post loads and work together. You’ll be able to pick the routes you like and take control of your hours. Every carrier has different needs, so we’ve rounded up our a handful of load boards to help narrow your search.

 

Top load boards for any carrier

5. Trucker Path

One of the industry’s top smartphone apps used by drivers everywhere is Trucker Path. Trucker Path is free and boasts a vast userbase. This helps guarantees you will get the load you want. Filter your searches by weight and route with ease through their mobile app or on a desktop if you prefer. They let you check credit scores of brokers. This feature helps you confirm that you’re always dealing with the most professional people in the industry.

4. Truckstop.com

As one of the first load boards to appear on the internet Truckstop.com, a comprehensive load board. It’s a large community of brokers. They claim over 600,000 reliable brokers and offer one of the most streamlined load booking experience with Book It Now. Starting at $39 per month, Truckstop.com has three tiers each with an increasing feature list to help you move fast and secure.

3. Direct Freight

 

Direct Freight is among the most feature-packed load board apps available to carriers. Robust features include a filtering system, custom alert scheduling and weather notifications unique to your route. This app is nothing short of a full, enjoyable experience for owner-operators. You can check brokers’ credit scores for safe and secure load searching. Direct Freight offers a 15-day trial before a monthly subscription of $34.95.

2. 123Loadboard

From broker credit checks with TransCredit to fuel advances, 123Loadboards offers an immense amount of features and insights into all costs associated with each load. They remain to be one of a select few load boards where posting loads is still free. A 10-day trial is available to use the app both on desktop and your smartphone, though the service starts at $35 per month.

1. DAT Load Board

Dislosure: Links to DAT products are affiliate links and Jubitz may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. 

 

DAT Solutions has been around for a long time and got its start at our Jubitz truck stop in 1978 with Dial-A-Truck monitors. Their DAT Load Board app helps you instantly find and bid on loads as they arrive in your feed, filtered to your preferences. You’re able to use the heat map feature to see where your trucks are in highest demand.

DAT gives you two tiers to choose from for the perfect load board. Their top tier subscription, DAT Power, starts at $170 per month and offers the fullest experience of their Load Board app. Know the market demand at all times, get the best route suggestions, and rest easy knowing you’ll get paid through their own load assurance program.

Sign up here for 1 month of DAT Power free!*

*Promotions are for new subscribers only

If you don’t need all the bells and whistles of DAT Power, DAT TruckersEdge provides a simpler and more cost-effective solution starting at only $39.95 per month. TruckersEdge provides unlimited searching and posting, instant alarm match notification, broker credit scores and days to pay, market rates, mileage routing, and more.

Sign up here for 1 month of DAT TruckersEdge free!*

*Promotions are for new subscribers only