does anyone use biodiesel
Freshman User
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 29
Likes: 0
Yes, I make my own and generally run B100 with a two tank system. The bio tank is heated (I live in Maine) for the winter along with a heated fuel filter. I can turn off the heat in the summer. I start on diesel and switch to bio as soon as everything comes up to temperature.
The truck runs very quietly and smoothly on biodiesel. I do notice a slight power reduction on b100 but it is only relevant when I really punch it. Highway driving with the cruise control on is just quieter.
You may want to sample the fuel from the supplier. I suggest putting some in a glass jar and making sure nothing precipitates out over a week. There have been incidents of poorly handled mixed fuel having some issues. Just like some guys have better luck with some dino diesel stations over others.
The truck runs very quietly and smoothly on biodiesel. I do notice a slight power reduction on b100 but it is only relevant when I really punch it. Highway driving with the cruise control on is just quieter.
You may want to sample the fuel from the supplier. I suggest putting some in a glass jar and making sure nothing precipitates out over a week. There have been incidents of poorly handled mixed fuel having some issues. Just like some guys have better luck with some dino diesel stations over others.
Senior User
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 103
Likes: 0
Originally Posted by bill1187
just wondering if anyone uses biodiesel. a local fuel station nearby started carrying it and wanted to know any pros and cons for it.
- reduced emissions
- better lubricity
- cleaner burning
Some folks have expressed concerns about the fuel gelling in colder climates, but it depends on the grade you are using (B-5, B-10, etc) and most just add an anti-gelling DFA such as Diesel Kleen.
Hope this helps!
Posting Guru
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 1,873
Likes: 1
From: Phx, AZ
I have been making my own for over two years now. I run it in my modified 2002 F250. And Momma's almost stock X. I run B100 about 90% of the time(on long trips I sometimes will need to top off with petroleum diesel for the return trip) It has been around 27 degrees here at night the last week or so. No issues. It does smell way better, non toxic, non hazardous if you spill some, bio degradeble, better emissions, less particulates (black smoke), runs quieter, and cleaner. Some do report a slight loss of power. I tow a large 5er and or a boat and have not noticed any change in power in my truck. Only a slight change in my wife's X. I lost about 1/2 mpg. My wife gained a mpg. (probably because I know how cheap it is to make so I drive with a heavier foot then before). I like it and glad I made the switch. So is the pms as the truck gets more mods the more money I save on fuel. Next is a GDS turbo!!!!!!!
Postmaster
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 2,759
Likes: 0
From: round rock, tx
Originally Posted by richochet
I have been using B11 for over a year. I get 2mi/gal better fuel mileage and truck runs much quieter. No doubt in my mind its better and obviously lubricates better.
Trending Topics
Posting Guru
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,285
Likes: 1
i run biodiesel aswell. usually b99 but have been using b20 lately because its less of a drive to get. i just love the way the engine sounds when going wide open with b99. its just sooo smoooth.
FTE Stories
Ford Trucks for Ford Truck Enthusiasts
AEV FXL Super Duty - the Super Duty Raptor Ford Doesn't Make
Brett Foote
Lobo Vs Lobo: Proof the F-150 Lobo Should Be Even Lower!
Michael S. Palmer
Ford's 2001 Explorer Sportsman Concept Looks For a New Home
Verdad Gallardo
10 Best Ford Truck Engines We Miss the Most!
Joe Kucinski
2026 Shelby F-150 Off-Road: Better Than a Raptor R?
Brett Foote
2027 Super Duty Carhartt Package First Look: 12 Things You NEED to Know!
Michael S. Palmer
10 Most Surprising 2026 Ford Truck Features!
Joe Kucinski
Top 10 Ford Trucks Coming to Mecum Indy 2026
Brett Foote
5 Best / 5 Worst Ford Truck Wheels of All Time
Joe Kucinski
Lead Driver
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 7,413
Likes: 1
From: Columbia, MO
I use B5 here when I can. Pros are the increased lubricity so you don't have to use any additive, and less smoke. About the only downside is you'll need to change your fuel filter after the first couple of tanks. Bio has a cleaning effect on the tank and lines, so any gunk that's lining your tank will come loose and get into the filter. Also, the Bio is higher priced in some places, but it's the same price here.
Lead Driver
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,308
Likes: 250
From: Hartford, WI
There has been rumblings of leaking seals. Has anyone really heard much of lubricity issues? I have used B20 in the truck and it is a little quieter or so the wife says. Not really much of a difference to me. In any case, mileage was the same. IIRC, at B40 I lost mileage. When I experimented with it, I was doing it via splash mix so I could keep the diesel part of the fuel consistent.