What Does Cetane Mean To Your Engine?

Cetane and why it's important to your engine

The Cetane Rating of Diesel Fuel is an integral part of the Diesel Engine's Operation. Unlike the octane rating of Gasoline, in which the higher the #, the higher the fuel's resistance to self-ignition. Diesel fuel has a Cetane Rating which defines the Fuel's ability to Self-Ignite, without an external ignition source (spark plug), and the speed of which it does so.

The nationally accepted Minimum Cetane Rating is 40, however, Diesels run best on 45 Rated fuel or higher, although the advantages of a higher Cetane Rating do plateau around 50-55, depending on the actual composition of the fuel (Does it have any Bio Diesel in it, or an additive, or is it normal #2 Diesel Fuel?)

See our Diesel Fuel Additives article for more information on raising Cetane Levels.