MEP-802A/803A and biodiesel

[Sgt Jiggins]

Hey All,

I realize that in posting this, I should probably don a firesuit, but...

I recently secured a decent MEP-802A. And a BioSpring 380EX. http://www.springboardbiodiesel.com/biopro380/380specs

I'm curious if anyone else runs biodiesel in their MEP-802A/MEP-803A. If you're too skeered to post in the forum, PM is cool.

Thanks,
SJ/JD

 

[Coug]

I don't, because mine is more for backup use, not regular use. From what I understand biodiesel breaks down a lot faster than regular diesel does, so not a good option for an emergency/standby unit. The other issue is if there is any gunk in your fuel system, it WILL clean it up, and you'll want to keep a couple fuel filters on hand when you do the switch over just in case.
I don't know if the fuel lines are rated for it, but changing them out isn't that big of a deal. You'll probably want to talk to someone who knows these better than I do as to whether the seals in the pumps are rated for biodiesel, or if you'll need to find the seals and other parts necessary for a conversion.

 

[Ray70]

You will definitely need to change out all your rubber fuel lines at a minimum. Most likely the well nut will also need attention.
Also, keep in mind that biodiesel will cloud at temps as high as like 36F. So in cold climates running straight Biodiesel has other issues besides eating rubber and disolving any gunk etc.

 

[Chainbreaker]

A while back I too was wondering about possible use of Biodiesel in generators and ran across this thread in SS's "Alternative Fuels" under the General forum.

I also did some research and I posted a contributing article link (post #17) in the above referenced thread, regarding sludging in engines using straight BioDiesel. In Oregon I find that storing any type of Diesel long term is difficult when you have to deal with high humidity situations due to lots of winter rain. BioD is hydroscopic and therefore more prone to water contamination. So for me, I do not run straight 100% BioD in anything and only use the minimum % of BioD required in our state, which is currently B5 Diesel.

 

[Sgt Jiggins]

All great input, thank you! Chainbreaker, that thread was especially helpful. SJ/JD

 

[robson1015]

Nothing good from using biodiesel.....I stay completely away from it.

 

[Farmitall]

In a worst case SHTF scenario, most human consumable fats/oils will be used as food just for the calories. It's unlikely you will be finding much bio diesel around.
I'd stick with regular diesel and just treat and store a lot of it.