My local station recently started selling a different type of diesel fuel. I noticed a sticker on the pump that said 99% Biomass-Based Diesel Blend, Biomass-Based Renewable Diesel. The Jeep manual says limit Biodiesel to 5% to 20% blend. But wait, the magic word here is Renewable. I had questions. Time to dive into the wild world of diesel fuels. (What is Biomass?)
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A Deep Dive Into The World Of On-Highway Diesel Fuels
Regular diesel, biodiesel, and renewable are the diesel fuel types I am comparing. We'll look at the pros, cons, and how they affect your engine, emissions, and maintenance. By the end you’ll have a pretty good idea which fuel is the best choice for your diesel motor. Rudolph Diesel called it the “compression ignition reciprocating engine”in his patent application.
Comparing Diesel Fuel Types: What's The Best For My Jeep?
I bought my first diesel in 1998 and since then I have owned quite a few - trucks, vans, cars, you name it. I sold most of them, the VW got recalled, and now I own two Ecodiesel Jeeps. During that time diesel fuels have changed. (See what 2022 Jeep manual says about Biodiesel)
The EPA Mandated A Cleaner Diesel Fuel In 2006 - That Meant Removing Sulfur
Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel that meets ASTM D975 specs was created. Removing sulfur lessens soot and particulates from combustion and allowed advanced pollution control systems to be installed on vehicles like Diesel Particulate Filters further reducing emissions. Removing sulfur created some problems too, like making diesel fuel more expensive having less lubricity. I will address other issues later in the video. DEF or (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) systems were added around 2016 to further clean up emissions. I’m not addressing that here, that would be a whole different video.
Emissions Controls Components On My Jeep Wrangler
Take a look at the photo above. This is the DPF or Diesel Particulate Filter on my Wrangler Ecodiesel. I remember the first time I climbed under here. It was mind boggling seeing how complex the system is. It is well engineered and does its job but I shudder at the thought of having to diagnose problems or the expense to replace parts
Two Important Terms I'll Mention - Cetane Level and Lubricity
2 important terms to understand diesel fuel are Cetane Level and Lubricity. Cetane Level tells you how fast the diesel fuel ignites. The minimum level allowed is 40. Generally speaking the higher the number the better. Lubricity is the ability of diesel fuel to reduce friction on components like fuel pumps and injectors. Years ago it was common to hear folks say diesel engines last longer because the fuel is a lubricant.
Related Content
New Choices For On-Road Diesel Fuels - What are They?
There’s not just one kind on-road or “highway” diesel anymore. You have regular or petrol diesel, biodiesel, and renewable diesel, each one with its own pros and cons. By the end of this article you'll have a good idea which is best for your rig and your wallet.
Petrol Diesel or Regular Diesel: Pumped Out Of The Ground And Into Your Tank!
Burning Dinosaur Bones. Regular Diesel is made from the black gold that comes straight from the earth. Usually the most affordable option, your vehicle will perform well using it. Usually about a 45-50 cetane level which is ok not great. Ever since they took out the sulfur, it's got less lubricity, so your engine might see a tad more wear and tear on its moving parts, but injectors should be ok. Just keep in mind, it might create more soot, leading to more DPF regeneration and an earlier call for a replacement. I’m pretty sure its not available in California where I live anymore. Supplements can raise Cetane Level and add Lubricity. I swear by HotShot and Liqui Molly Super Diesel Additive. Links below for both!
Biodiesel: Invented To Reduce Dependence On Fossil Fuels
Biodiesel is refined using a process called Transesterification and is blended with regular diesel. You'll see it labeled with a "B" and a number, like "B20"that tells you how much biodiesel is in the mix. Bio diesel produces more ash and a different type of soot that can make the DPF regenerate more often. Don’t worry, your modern diesel was built to handle it. I had a Dodge Promaster Diesel that I used for short trips through the city and did not get on the highway often. That van was constantly regenerating. You can smell the burning when it does. Biodiesel does not store well. It can degenerate and clog fuel pumps and injectors. If you leave you vehicle sitting for long periods consider a alternative fuel. Its not all bad for Biodiesel. It's got better lubricity than regular diesel. It's got a good minimum Cetane level, at least 47, slightly better performance and less wear and tear on components. Jeep says using Biodiesel requires more frequent oil changes. Check my video Ecodiesel Oil And All Filters Changed (Jeep Gladiator Wrangler JL).
Renewable Diesel: A Engineered Molecule Exactly Like Petroleum Diesel
Renewable diesel is a 99% biomass fuel created using a refining process called Hydrotreating. That creates a engineered molecule chemically identical to regular diesel. Use it in any diesel engine no problem, no modifications. The EPA requires 1% regular diesel added to comply with the Federal Renewable Fuel Standard so it can be assigned a Renewable Industry Number (RIN) which is R99.
Better for your motor because it's a high performance fuel. The Cetane level is between 70 and 90. That is awesome because it means better cold starts, fuel economy, performance, lower carbon footprint, and it burns more completely. Extremely easy on the DPF and the rest of the complex emissions system.
There are couple downsides. It can be tougher on the wallet. Renewable can be a little more expensive but the performance advantages can make it worthwhile. The other disadvantage is less lubricity. Fortunately that is easily remedied with a supplement like Hot Shot’s Secret LX4. Link to purchase down below.
Conclusion:
While all three options have their place, I believe renewable diesel is the best choice for most owners of modern diesel vehicles. Seems like they finally came up with a fuel that is sustainable with reduced emissions, more complete combustion and fewer DPF regenerations.
I notice my Jeep has more giddy-up probably due to the higher Cetane levels and I’m getting better fuel mileage. I love my diesel powered vehicles and I’m sad to see them going away like they are. Maybe this sustainable more environmentally friendly diesel fuel option will help to keep them around longer.
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What Does The Jeep Manual Say About BioDiesel Fuel Requirements? It Does not mention Renewable Diesel.
(Text exactly as it appears in the 2022 Jeep Gladiator Manual)
A maximum been of 5% biodiesel meeting ASTM specification D975 is recommended for use with your diesel engine. If frequent operation with biodiesel blends that are between 6% and 20% (B6-B20) is desired, the maintenance schedule is subject to shorter intervals.
Biodiesel Fuel Requirements
The oil and filter change along with fuel filter replacement is subject to short intervals when operating your engine on biodiesel greater than 5%. Do not use biodiesel greater than 20%.
For regular use of of biodiesel blends between 6% and 20% (B6-B20) it is important that you understand and comply with these requirements.
Caution!
Failure to comply with Oil Change requirements for vehicles operating on biodiesel blends between 6% and 20% (B6-B20) will result in premature engine wear. Such wear is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Biodiesel fuel has inherent limitations which require that you understand and adhere to the following requirements if you use blends of biodiesel between 6% and 20% (B6-B20). There are no unique restrictions for the use of B5.
Caution!
Use of blends greater than 20% is not approved. Use of blends greater than 20% can result in engine damage. Such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Caution:
In the event that the vehicle is filled with biodiesel and not used for more than a month, the fuel should either be used up by driving (up to quarter tank)and filled with standard diesel blends with less than 5% that is normally available. This will help prevent the fuel filter clogging and potential damage to the fuel injection system due to degraded biodiesel which is not covered by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
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