Biodiesel In TC33 or other TC Models

[JoeTC33]

I am contemplating using a blend of biodiesel in my new TC33 (delivery this week) and have not asked the dealer about whether biodiesel would affect the warranty. Has anyone been using biodiesel or checked with their dealer on effect on warranty?

I am considering using a blend of 5% to improve quality of #2 diesel but I have heard use of up to 20% works well. JD has come out with a position that 5% blend is acceptable for their tractors. I could not find a position by NH. Also, I have read if you begin using a biodiesel blend in a used tractor that it will clean out tank residue and you will have to change fuel filter often until completely clean so would rather start using it right away.

Thanks

 

[MikePA]

Welcome to TBN, Joe. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif Here are links to some recent, and some not so recent, discussions about BioDiesel that I found by doing a Search. Given the breadth and depth of experience on TBN, doing a Search almost always unearths a treasure of knowledge. Enjoy. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

The last time I asked NH about BioDiesel, here's the answer I got...(my original post is also in one of the links below). BTW, I used BioDiesel in my TC25D. It ran fine. The only 'problem' I had was, with no local distributer, I had to get it mail order which makes it way too expensive. Plus, there are issues running BioDiesel in colder climates, so I could not use it year round.

Here's a response I received on 7/7/2003 from New Holland.

Thank you for contacting New Holland North America. Please accept our apologies for the delay in responding to your email. Normally, we are able to respond to inquiries within a few business days and we hope to be able to serve you better in future.

The use of biodiesel blends meeting ASTM 6751 (see attached Appendix for more information on ASTM 6751) is approved for New Holland engines up to a B5 (5% blend ratio). Biodiesel fuel blends can be used in all CNH produced engines. Some problems with elastomers o'rings, seals, etc.) may be experienced with older equipment though replacement service parts should remedy this situation.

However, please note that since biodiesel does not have long-term stability, it should not be left in engines that are stored for more than four months. Also, prior to storage, engines should be flushed by running for a minimum of 30 minutes with regular diesel fuel.

Since biodiesel fuel has a higher cloud point than conventional diesel fuels, its use during the winter months should be discouraged in favor of a blend of #1 and #2 conventional diesel fuels. Biodiesel fuels attract moisture and may contain higher content of water than conventional diesel fuels. It may be necessary to drain the fuel filter water trap more frequently when using biodiesel fuel.

Additionally, depending on fuel quality, it may be necessary to change the engine fuel filters more often when using biodiesel fuel. If biodiesel blends are spilled onto painted surfaces, they should be wiped up immediately or they can damage the painted surface.

On the plus side, biodiesel contains no sulfur or aromatics, and is an excellent lubricant. It has a higher cetane number and burns cleaner than diesel fuels and produces less particulate and smoke emissions. It mixes easily with conventional diesel fuels and does not separate once it is mixed. It is considered an environmentally friendly fuel because it is a renewable source of energy. Pure biodiesel fuel is biodegradable and non-toxic to animals and plant life.

New Holland is presently evaluating blends greater than B5 and will issue the results to certified New Holland Dealers via Service Bulletin once the results are available.


Biodiesel - any experience?
bio-diesel
BIODEISEL

 

[JoeTC33]

Mike..I guess I did not do broad enough search. Thanks for all the info and sounds like you have had good experience with its use. I will now search for local source which should not be hard to find in the midwest. Mail order appears to be very expensive.

 

[BigDave]

Joe, welcome and as Mike has said, there has been plenty of discussions about Biodiesel, especially in the Oil, Fuel & Lubricants area. I've used many different mixtures of bio in my TC33D over the past two years. It has ranged from 5% to 100%. I am taking a risk with NH and my warranty, but frankly I'm not concerned about my engine failing due to a cleaner more lubricating fuel. It's more of a solvent, but I started with a brand new tractor, so I don't have any sludge in my tank. When I run a high percentage of bio, my TC purrs like a kitten. I don't run Bio in the winter, because it does gell up, luckily I know this by seeing it gell in the gas can and not in my fuel system. So, am I'm running dirty fuel in the winter? Well not exactly, I add an cetane booster which also keeps the fuel system clean. I am also fortunate to have several local choices for bio, from 5% pre-mixed to 100% bio straight from the pump. Good luck with whatever you choose.