How difficult is it to make biodiesel at home?

Question

i have been doing some research on it and i'm considering buying an older mercedes. from what i understand the only conversion it really requires is new fuel lines but my main concern is how realistic it is for me to make it in my garage with used vegetable oil from a restaurant.

Answer 1

There is a show called Dirty Jobs, and one of the shows, the guy goes around picking up used vegetable oil and makes Biodiesel.  It seems pretty complicated, the guy who makes it has alot of big machines and stuff.

Answer 2

Latest research shows that biodiesel is far more polluting than normal diesel.  This is because whilst it produces less carbon it produces far more NOX which acts as a catalyst in the atmosphere to produce far more destructive gasses!!

The European Union made a directive making it compulsory to use a percentage of bio fuel a few year ago.  They are now so concerned they are actually looking at reversing that decision!!!

Answer 3

It can be done at home. The hard part is finding a source for you grease. There are recyling co. that collect it for resale to large bio-diesel refineries. Good for you for trying!

Answer 4

The main thing is to filter it so that it will not stop up the injectors. A diesel can burn all oils including lube oil.

Answer 5

sorry no one is giving away free fuel anymore.

there are a number of sites on the net that tell you in detail how to process it at home if you can find a source.

you don't need new fuel lines but you do need a way to flush it from the system before it cools & gells or solidifies when you shut the motor off in cold weather.

Answer 6

It is easier to run wvo than storing methonal.