Hi folks-

I've seen a some posts from various people both on these and other forums who state that their vehicle produces less HP when running bio than when running regular #2 diesel.

Is there anything to this? From the reading that I've done, it sounds to me like bio has a higher cetane level, better lubricity, etc, so it seems kind of counter- intuitive to me that it would lead to lower HP output.

Does anyone have any further explanation that can enlighten me?

Thanks!

 

I did a quick google and found this web page.
http://www.cytoculture.com/Biodiesel...%20PERFORMANCE


Here is a quick quote from this web site.
In the Volvo marine diesel engine study in Tennessee (110-HP, 2.39 L, 4-cylinder, direct injection engine), a tractor dynamometer was used to measure power outputs under selected loads through an engine-mounted reverse drive gear. Exhaust emissions were also tested along with fuel consumption tests under various loads. The conclusions of these tests were that power produced from 100% soy methyl ester Biodiesel was from 2 to 7 percent less than produced from petrodiesel, depending on the load-speed point. However, at or near maximum throttle (3,800 rpm), the two fuels performed the same. Interestingly, at the lowest engine speed (1855 rpm) at full throttle under heavier load, there was a 13% increase in power with Biodiesel as compared to petrodiesel.

The Tennessee study indicated that using 100% Biodiesel in marine direct-injection diesel engines, with design and construction similar to the Volvo test engine, could be recommended without any significant, noticeable differences in operation, power performance and fuel usage.

In the 1998 study at the Southwest Research Institute on Biodiesel effects on diesel engine performance, engine power in the 1997 Cummings truck engine operating on the B-20 blend was at 98.5% of the power attained with low sulfur No. 2 diesel. At 100% Biodiesel, the engine generated 92% of the power. For a Detroit Diesel truck engine (1997), the power was 98% with the B-20 and 92% with the neat Biodiesel.

 

Ive been running B50 in mine and my last tank is basically B75........I cant tell a bit of difference in power. Quietness yes, power no.

 

Here is an article to read from Case/IH ag equipment which talks about power loss in middle of article. Enjoy! http://www.caseih.com/highlights/hig...3&recordid=193

 

good article!!!!!!!!!!!!