Investigation of soybean oil as a diesel fuel extender: Endurance tests

Abstract

Abstract Engine performance and crankcase lubricant viscosity were followed with 1∶2 and 1∶1 fuel mixtures of degummed soybean oil in No. 2 diesel fuel in tests with a John Deere 6‐cylinder, 404 cubic in. displacement, direct‐injection, turbocharged engine for a total of 600 running hours. A crankcase oil contamination problem resulting in an unacceptable thickening and a potential for gelling did exist with a 50/50 blend or a greater concentration of soybean oil, but it did not occur with the 1∶2 blend. The data accumulated during the initial 600 hr running time indicates that a fuel blend of one‐third degummed soybean oil and two‐thirds No. 2 diesel (1∶2 blend) may be a suitable fuel for agricultural equipment during periods of diesel fuel shortages or allocations. Additional data are being accumulated and will be analyzed in the future.