Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Biodiesel

[dsmartinjr]

I'm considering all the pros and cons of running bio diesel in my 2001. 5 2500. I'm a new owner, and although I've run B100 for years in my 7. 3 L F-350, I'm now a little more protective of my Cummins. Who is currently running a biodiesel blend in their truck? Have you had problems with your fuel injectors? My current mods include only an AFT air intake, 4" MBPR exhaust, and a Smarty programmer. All else is stock.

Are there special fuel injectors that I could consider switching over to, in anticipation of more particulates, etc? Has anyone tried a 2-stage fuel filter, one at 10 microns followed by another at 4? What about in-line heating elements? I would also appreciate any links to previous posts on this subject, so I can educate myself. I've learned a little about the VP44 and its potential problems, but I'm unclear whether or not trying to run a biofuel will put unnecessary strain on the injector pump. So what do you think?

 

[BWagnaar]

I've run a couple tanks of biodiesel in my 01 and notice a very min power loss but did notice the motor was a lot quiter! Once i ran regular diesel through it I thought something was wrong cause it started to get more clakity.

I have a couple buddies that brew it at home and have been running it a 96, 01, and 03 with no real problems for a few years... as far as know.

 

[JTHosler]

My dad and I have been running a B20 blend for the past few years in our trucks, as well as all the farm equipment. Never had a fuel related problem, my truck with mods in sig, and dad's truck is an 06 Cummins stock. I did replace the vp44, but I am doubtful it was because of the blended fuel.

 

[AzCattle]

We have run biodiesel in our trucks (all dodges from 03 to 07) and all of our farm equipment (Deeres to Cats) for over 3 years now. Usually we buy B75-b100. We currently have B90 in the tanks. Never had any issues with any of them. Make sure you have a good supplier. We have an old 69 IH TD9-B dozer that we use all the time. It gets along just fine on the bio.

 

[maxburk]

We live up in the mountains of Colorado at 8000 feet. I use 2% Bio in the winter for lubrication and B20 the rest of the year on my 2001. 5 with no problems. At 130k I am still on the original injectors. If you are in cold weather watch for gelling. I just add anti gel as part of my winter routine.