4 Helpful Tips for Understanding Diesel Truck Rentals

To rent gas units or diesel units? That’s the ultimate question among fleet managers when looking to add new units to their current fleet of trucks. Depending on whether you decide to rent or purchase your trucks will dictate whether which fuel option is a better route for you. We’ve put together 4 tips on understanding diesel truck rentals and how to best care for them during your rental period.

1.Be aware of the fuel type before fueling.

It’s incredibly important to note the fuel type of your rental.  If you happen to put any fuel in the tank that is not intended for the vehicle, do not run the unit and call your contact at PTR immediately.

2. Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is not the same as diesel fuel.

The purpose of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) is to lower the dangerous emission gasses from these trucks, hence why our truck rentals all have DEF in order to properly function.

DEF is able to be purchased at different gas stations or auto part stores and is to be monitored closely. The fluid levels can be seen on the dashboard gauge of the truck and the fluid will be put in the blue cap marked DEF. Be sure to not put DEF in your fuel tank or fuel in your DEF system.

3. Diesel trucks are often heavier duty than gas units.

If you have a lot of equipment that you need to carry, the heavier duty you need the truck to be. More often than not, diesel units are tougher and stronger than gas units, meaning that they are ultimately more fuel efficient when it is time to add additional equipment. 

If you rent a truck that is diesel-only for a long-term rental, in order to keep it working at its full potential, be sure to regularly change it’s oil and use the correct fuel to keep it operating so you and your crew can continue working on your project.

4. Understanding Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) will keep your truck working at full capacity.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a filter that protects the environment from getting soot and other pollutants. It cleans itself by burning the soot from the exhaust system at a high temperature.

There is a light on your dashboard that indicates that there’s a DPF warning. When this light comes on, it’s important to allow your truck rental to do a manual regeneration process (by selecting the DPF button). When you need to do a DPF regeneration, make sure that you have fuel in your tank. It’s important to note that if your light for DPF has been on for a while, your truck will try to prevent further damage by shutting off. 

When you have diesel truck rentals in your fleet, it’s vital to take care of them in order to keep them working effectively and efficiently. Whatever type of fuel you prefer for your rentals, we at PTR have options for both preferences. Connect with our Sales Team today at sales@rentptr.com or fill out a quote request form for more information.