Convert Your Car to Biodiesel

What is Biodiesel?

Biodiesel is a renewable, biodegradable fuel manufactured domestically from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled restaurant grease. It can be used in its pure form (B100) or blended with petroleum diesel. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, biodiesel reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 86% compared to petroleum diesel (source).

Benefits of Biodiesel

1. Environmental Impact: Biodiesel emits fewer pollutants, including carbon dioxide, sulfur oxides, and particulate matter.
2. Energy Security: Using biodiesel reduces dependence on foreign oil.
3. Economic Benefits: It supports the agricultural sector and creates jobs in the renewable energy industry.

Converting Your Diesel Car to Biodiesel

Compatibility

Most diesel engines can run on biodiesel with little to no modification. However, older vehicles may require some adjustments to fuel lines and seals, as biodiesel can degrade certain types of rubber.

Conversion Kits

To run your car on SVO, you'll need a conversion kit. These kits typically include:

1. SVO Fuel Tank: A separate tank for vegetable oil.
2. Fuel System Overhaul: Modifications to the fuel lines and injectors.
3. Heating System Modification: Vegetable oil needs to be heated to reduce its viscosity.

Installation

You can either hire a mechanic to install the conversion kit or do it yourself. Most kits come with detailed instructions. Prices for these kits can range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the make and model of your vehicle (source).

What is Straight Vegetable Oil (SVO)?

SVO is unprocessed vegetable oil that can be used as fuel in diesel engines. Common sources include corn, soy, hemp, and palm oil. While SVO is not as refined as biodiesel, it can be a cost-effective and sustainable option.

Sourcing SVO

Buying new vegetable oil can be expensive. Many people opt to collect used vegetable oil from local restaurants. This not only reduces costs but also recycles waste oil that would otherwise be discarded.

Filtering SVO

Before using SVO in your vehicle, it must be filtered to remove food particles and other impurities. A simple method involves heating the oil and passing it through a strainer or coffee filter.

Interesting Stats

• Biodiesel Production: In 2020, the U.S. produced approximately 1.8 billion gallons of biodiesel (source).
• Energy Efficiency: Biodiesel has a higher energy balance than petroleum diesel, with a return of 5.5 units of energy for every unit of fossil energy input (source).
• Global Impact: If the entire U.S. diesel fleet switched to B20 (20% biodiesel), it would reduce carbon emissions by 16 million metric tons annually (source).

Conclusion

Converting your car to run on biodiesel or SVO is a practical and environmentally friendly choice. It not only reduces your carbon footprint but also supports sustainable energy practices. With the right conversion kit and a bit of effort, you can make a significant impact on both your finances and the planet.

For more information on biodiesel and its benefits, visit the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Biodiesel Board.