Whats the equipment needed for a conventional diesel engine to run on Biodiesel, especially Jatropha Curcas's.

Question

And also how to convert a Petrol engine to Biodiesel?

Answer 1

The present diesel engine can run on bio-diesel. A small amount of diesel is needed to start the engine. Once at operating temperature the alternate oil will work. Gasoline engines cannot burn diesel but they can burn other fuels like alcohol produced, of course, from plants.

Answer 2

You may need to change out the plastic parts of your fuel system if you plan to run on straight bio-diesel (FAME).  It is a solvent and will attack the polymers used in some older designs.  Most newer designs can handle 100% FAME with no problems.  You should check with your engines manufacturer.

The process for converting fats to FAME is actually pretty simple, but it does involve the use of some fairly nasty chemicals.

Answer 3

Diesel to biodiesel is no big deal.  You probably don't want to switch to 100% biodiesel though because it's hard on the fuel pump and filter.  Mix it 1:10 (biodiesel to diesel).  As for your second question, I'm sure it could be done but it's probably not worth it.  The cost and amount of work to be done wouldn't justify the end result.  Just know that any diesel engine can run on biodiesel.  It will even run on kerosene or WD-40.  I've also seen people add used motor oil to their diesel.  However, if you are going to do this, I would suggest finding some sort of message board or website where people do this on a regular basis.  And remember, anything you do that goes against the manufacturer's recommendations is at your own risk!

Answer 4

you dont need any thing , with the price of fuel now , your probably already  getting a mix , but dont know about it .... they call it "gypsy fuel "here in Australia , in the northern territories  you should see some of the stuff they are running diesel engines on , you just need to make sure you have a lubricant in the fuel  for the injector pump, we had a big problem here with a blend of diesel that corroded the vitrius nitrile "o" rings in the injector pumps  on new vehicles , and they started to leak diesel , there was  major litigation against suppliers , but  its been changed since .....