Bio Diesel Fuel

[jeepsrule]

A couple years ago someone asked about Bio Diesel fuel use. I looks like Cummins supports the use of B20 on their website. Who has used it and what are the pros and cons? I have a 2005 ISL 400hp engine with 35,000 miles, do I want to use it??

[ua40j]

I haven't used it in my 2002 ISC but I have researched it. B20 is not recommended for my year engine (in 2002, Cummins certified B5 only for ISCs) but I don't think it would be harmful.

What I've learned is that bio-diesel is superior to ULSD in lubricity. This is supported by some independent testing. This will definitely help your injectors and fuel/lift pumps. There is a slight loss in fuel economy due to reduce energy levels in biodiesel vs #2 diesel.

Changing over to biodiesel will also cost you some fuel filters. Using biodiesel 'cleans' the tank and removes accumulated junk from your fuel system. Most people who use biodiesel report having to change the fuel filter more often.

If I had biodiesel around me, I'd use it.

[jeepsrule]

thanks Jim, I read some of the same on the filters. Not sure I want to mess with filters while traveling this summer.

[spike45]

An issue with biodiesel not previously mentioned specifically is that fuel filters do have plugging issues related to cold fuel. It is called 'cold fuel filter plugging' and relates to issues of rapid change in viscosity of cold biodiesel. Specifically, the SME (soy methyl ester) content will experience changes in cold fuel starting at around 40F and down. Has similar effect of cloud point in diesel fuel. Same result, filter plugging. There are no really good fuel additives that can combat this issue. It is best to keep these fuels warm in the tank which is not practical.