Driving with B99
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 to run high-blend biodiesel, such as B99 (99% biodiesel), in pre-1990 vehicles, so see tips for older vehicles.
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 or fuel system damage, the fuel producer is responsible for repair costs. So we suggest you always use Propel’s quality-certified ASTM biodiesel, backed by a guarantee to fix or replace any damage to your engine or fuel system if our fuel is determined to be the cause of that damage.
When nearing freezing temperatures, some biodiesel can begin to cloud, crystallize and plug your fuel filter. However, Propel’s B75 winter biodiesel blend is specially formulated for use in temperatures as low as 23° F.
Note: When driving in extreme cold temperatures we recommend you switch to Propel B5 or B20 for optimum engine performance.
Making the switch from petrodiesel to biodiesel has the potential to plug your fuel filter because biodiesel actually cleans deposits left in your fuel tank and system 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.
Any commercial additive can be used with biodiesel, though it’s rarely required in vehicles newer than 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® by Power Service. Again, Propel’s B99 is formulated to perform in temps down to 32° F, but if traveling in colder temps, it’s a safe idea to carry a bottle of Diesel 911®.
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.
