Biodiesel effect on older diesels

[Lube Man]

It appears the only real concern with B100 is that it not come in contact with rubber parts. As far as I can see, the fuel lines on the 1999 Dodges and probably all the newer ones are metal. However, back at the top of the fuel tank (which is rather difficult to get to) the supply line looks like a black plastic tubing. Does anyone know what this line is made of? Is it reaaly plastic or am I looking at a coated metal line.



I called Dodge home office and all they told me was that B5 was ok to use. They could not tell me what the fuel lines are made of. Local dealer said they do not recommend biodiesel because the injection pumps needs lubrication from the fuel! That's how much they understand biodiesel.



I guess the bottom line question is whether or not there are any fuel lines that need to be replaced to run B100.



Another related question is what % biodiesel can you run without worrying about rubber deterioration?

 

[WBusa]

Another related question is what % biodiesel can you run without worrying about rubber deterioration?

"Using high percent blends can impact fuel system components (primarily fuel hoses and fuel pump seals) that contain elastomer compounds incompatible with biodiesel, although the effect is lessened as the biodiesel blend level is decreased. Experience with B20 has found that no changes to gaskets or hoses are necessary. "



From http://www.biodiesel.org/pdf_files/fuelfactsheets/Myths_Facts.pdf



biodiesel.org (the industry organization's web site) is a good source of info regarding issues like this.

 

[Mr. C]

There are many people (myself included) who are running B100 blends with no apparent problems but in the end you will have to determine how much risk you are willing to expose yourself to. If it turns out that there are any compatability issues I will assume the responsability for my choices and make any the apropriate adjustments and share my experiences with others. At this point I don't expect to see a problem because there are many more pioneeres who have been using B100 a lot longer than me with out any problems. Most problems I have heard about are from mid 80's and older on the fuel lines.



Botom line is the jury is still out for whether or not to worry about deterioration of parts. Find your comfort level and go for it.



Regards, Mike

 

[Lube Man]

It would be less of a gamble if we knew what materials were used in the VP44 and where.

 

[SHobbs]

B100 for over a 1 1/2 years, about 40-45k miles so far with no problems. The only leak that I have is a pesky one on top of the billet aluminum filter cover I got from Genos. I have not noticed any other leaks other than that.

 

[Lube Man]

Latest issue of TDR states that VP44 has Viton seals!

 

[Mr. C]

I guess that's why there have not been any problems related to seals yet