The only conversion required to run B99 is your mind.
Biodiesel can be used in any diesel engine without any engine modifications. In addition, you can switch between biodiesel and petroleum diesel at anytime—even in the same tank. That’s the convenience of biodiesel. That said, a few preparations are necessary with pre-1990 vehicles, so see tips for older vehicles.
Winter Driving: mind the seasons
When nearing freezing temperatures (32° F), some biodiesel can begin to cloud, crystallize and plug your fuel filter. However, Propel biodiesel is specially formulated for winter use, and keeps your engine performing well in freezing temperatures. Note: If filling with another biodiesel brand, biodiesel other than Propel, we recommend you adjust your fuel ratios to a 50% biodiesel, 50% petroleum diesel blend minimum in temps under 32° F.
Know your vehicle warranty rights.
Frankly, it disheartens us when manufacturers and salespeople threaten customers with a voided warranty. Vehicle manufacturer warranties specifically exclude “intentional or unintentional mis-fueling” – whether the fuel is biodiesel, petro-diesel or gasoline. If poor fuel causes engine damage, the fuel producer is responsible for repair costs. So we suggest you always use Propel’s quality-certified ASTM biodiesel, backed by a guarentee to fix or replace any damage to your fuel system if our fuel was determined to be the cause of that damage. All Propel personnel drive with high-blend biodiesel in our vehicles, and we continue to work for consumer rights in regard to ASTM certified biodiesel use.
- To know your rights, we recommend reading: Understanding the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act
- For complete manufacturers' statements, please visit www.biodiesel.org.
Fuel Filters
Making the switch from petrodiesel to biodiesel has the potential to plug your fuel filter because biodiesel actually cleans deposits left in your engine from petrodiesel. This can dislodge particles, so we suggest changing your fuel filter with each oil change for the initial 6,000 miles of biodiesel use. In addition, we encourage you to carry a spare fuel filter for quick replacement if you notice a decrease in power. As always, it’s best to be safe as you make the change.
Additives
Any commercial additive can be used with biodiesel, though it’s rarely required in vehicles newer 1990. If you do experience power loss in older vehicles, we suggest Diesel Kleen® + Cetane Boost®.
If you’re running biodiesel in cold winter temps, we opt for Diesel 911®. Again, Propel’s Pureformance 99 is formulated to perform in temps down to 9° F but if traveling in colder temps, it’s a safe idea to carry a bottle of Diesel 911®.
TDI Drivers: Be advised of VW’s TDI Limp Mode.
VW’s highly tuned Turbo Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engines may occasionally respond to fuel differences by kicking into “Limp Mode.” Limp Mode displays symptoms of fuel filter plugging, yet occurs predominantly at start up after filling with a new blend fuel (biodiesel, ULSD, or clean ULD).
Limp Mode is apparent when the TDI has lack of power, no boost or a 2K rpm limit. If you feel Limp Mode kick-in at start up, simply pull over, turn off your car and re-start it. The re-start will re-set the emissions chip, and onward you go! If problems persist, see your trusted mechanic.
More About Biodiesel
Driving an older diesel?
Be Prepared
As a common sense precaution, always carry a spare fuel filter in your vehicle.
We also recommend carrying the additive Diesel 911 by Power Service.
While very few biodiesel users experience problems, it’s better to be safe than sorry – especially if you find yourself filling up with un-known petro-diesel brands while on the road.
Powered by Biodiesel
As a biodiesel driver, you are part of an elite and growing demographic. Display your pride and help promote biodiesel to other drivers:
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Get a Pump Near You!
If biodiesel is not in your neighborhood, send a letter to your local station encouraging them to go green.
