bio diesel

[Fuzz_man]

What are some pros and cons of bio diesel. I am thinking I might start using it in my 2003 6.0L PSD.

[JIM_C]

You can start by reading here.

[CalWaterboy]

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What are some pros and cons of bio diesel. I am thinking I might start using it in my 2003 6.0L PSD.

[/ QUOTE ]

[img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif[/img] Pros:

Use just like petroleum diesel

Better lubricity

Lower emissions

Defined as non-hazardous

Quickly renewable resource - 1 year for oil seeds/palms; a few weeks for oil producing algea

Near zero net CO2 contribution due to renewability

If manufactured from donut oil, exhaust smells like donuts; ditto french fries


[img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/eek.gif[/img] Cons:

<font color="red">Using more than 5% biodiesel in fuel voids your 100K mile warranty!</font>

Cost

A bit less power

If you try making it yourself, <font color="red">hazardous materials</font> in manufacture, very objectionable to neighbors and your local fire dept (hazmat inspector) not to mention yourself if skin or worse contact - a dangerous and nasty experience, to put it mildly!

Methanol, for instance, is a poison that can be absorbed through the skin, or inhaled. If ignited, it burns with an invisable flame. High risk of fire or explosion. DANGER!

100% Caustic is very dangerous, and very slippery when wetted. If eye contact, it will travel along the mucous membrane around the eye. Read: Severe Chemical Burns. DANGER!

Methoxide, which is the combination of the two above as a step in making biodiesel, is a very reactive, caustic material. DANGER!

It ain't as easy as bakin' cookies, no matter what you read on the web.

[mannytranny]

Ive been running B80 in the Duramax for a few k miles, and I have not noticed a drop in mileage, or power. I recently was on a towing trip and kept careful mileage records. My first tank of B80 was 15.9 mpg. My next three tanks were on B5. They were all 15.9 mpg as well.

Ide say go for it. B20 should be NO problem. If you are buying in bulk/drums it may be a good idea to take a fuel sample and put it in a clear jar to make sure that it is clear.

My personal favorite.....: Biodiesel comes from American farmers, not from people like the Saudis.