Biodiesel is just awesome. Try some in your tank and see or you'll certainly smell the difference.
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What is biodiesel? A renewable, lower emission, higher cetane, greater lubricity diesel engine fuel made from vegetable oil or animal fat. While your engine is happy to burn straight vegetable oil (SVO) your diesel fuel system was designed to handle petroleum diesel and not veggie oil. Biodiesel is modified vegetable oil with a lower viscosity, thus giving biodiesel a similar viscosity to that of petrol diesel. The idea behind biodiesel is to modify the vegetable oil and NOT your vehicle. No modifications are necessary to use biodiesel. Your fuel system will not know the difference other than it will get cleaned, engine will run quieter and smoother with less emissions and a pleasant exhaust smell. Yes the exhaust will make you hungry.
Will biodiesel work in my diesel engine? Yes, if it's a diesel it will work! Biodiesel will work in any compression ignition engine with no modifications. That's the whole point of biodiesel. Just pour it into your tank and drive. NO MODIFICATIONS!
How much does it cost? Comparable to petroleum diesel.
What is B5, B20, and B100? B refers to biodiesel and the number refers to the percentage of biodiesel in the blend. Hence, B20 is 20% biodiesel and 80% petrol diesel.
Who is Dr. Diesel? A man ahead of his time and the inventor of the successful Diesel engine. Our hero.
What are the drawbacks of using biodiesel? Finding it can sometimes be difficult. Gels at a higher temperature than diesel so in a cold climate you may have gelling problems. Usually a higher cost per gallon. Possibly higher Nox emissions in older vehicles. Eats rubber, but modern vehicles have no rubber in the fuel system.
What are the benefits of using biodiesel? Too many to list. Some highlights: renewable, much cleaner burning, better for the engine and environment and health, SMELLS GOOD, and supports your local economy.
Can I make my own biodiesel? Yes, although it takes some commitment, a small investment, time, and garage space. Suggest you attend one of our workshops to find out how to make it safely.
Did you know that the new Mini is available with a Diesel engine? The diesel model is called the Mini One D but is not available in the US. Europe gets all the good cars. With some luck the US will get some neat small diesels for the 2008 model year.
Houston Biodiesel
723 N Drennan
Houston, TX 77003
Phone: (713) 222-0832
Hours: T-F 10-6.
Open till 8PM every Wednesday night!
Email us: chris at houstonbiodiesel dot com