Code Red! What is Red Diesel and when is it legal to run your tractor on it?

Agricultural journalist, smallholder and editor of Ford & Fordson Tractors Magazine Jane Brooks, joins us for her regular look at the world.

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As farming activities turn to autumn cultivations, it is also the ploughing match season and with Christmas approaching there will be plenty of winter road runs taking place so its important to understand how to stay legal.

Cherry juice, as many of us call it, is rebated diesel that is dyed red, to signify to the authorities that its use is confined to a number of legal applications. The addition of dye enables Customs & Excise to identify where its being used illegally. Red and white diesel both have the same properties to which the dye makes no difference. Red diesel is not allowed to be mixed with other petroleum products and its incorrect use can be subject to criminal prosecution and fines. Diesel can be stored for extended periods of up to a year, provided that it is kept in tanks or bowsers that are in good condition and are protected from the elements.

WINTER AND SUMMER DIESEL ARE DIFFERENT

However, diesel actually comes in two different grades: winter grade diesel and summer grade diesel. Summer diesel has a higher viscosity, which makes it less resistant to gelling in cold temperature (40C CFPP min) and it is generally used in the summer months.

Winter diesel has a lower viscosity and greater resistance to gelling in low temperatures (-12°C CFPP min), meaning it is more suited to winter use making it better suited to use in the cold winter months. It is usually available from November until March.