biodiesel in '05 E320CDI? - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

dsimonl · #1 10-07-2004, 11:10 PM

I have searched the web and asked my mechanic, but nobody can tell me what I need to do to use B100 in my new CDI. Has anyone with this new model tried it?

KCampbell · #2 10-07-2004, 11:19 PM

I can't directly answer your question, but with my 2002 VW all I did was fill up and run with it. Anything built since around '95 shouldn't have any problems with rubber fuel hoses from what I have read.

Kevin

Palangi · #3 10-07-2004, 11:21 PM

http://forums.tdiclub.com/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=747005&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=7&fpart=1

AusMBtech · #4 10-08-2004, 06:10 AM

The '05 CDI engine can be used with bio diesel. It is a factory option to be setup to run this option. The fuel filter service interval is alot shorter when you use bio diesel.

Talk to your dealer about this option. If they can't help you then get back to me and I'll lookup the info at work next week.

dsimonl · #5 10-08-2004, 11:14 AM

Thanks.

My dealer is clueless. Bio....what?

Any info you find on the option would be great.

AusMBtech · #6 10-21-2004, 06:27 AM

Sorry about the slow reply.

Benz call bio diesel 3 things
1) FAME: fatty acid methyl ester
2) PME Veg oil fatty acid methyl ester
3) rape seed oil fatty acid methyl ester

Bio diesel with increase fuel consumption slightly, reduce rated engine output, exhaust emmisions are similar but black smoke is reduced.

Approval: as of 8/99 for individual models, E200/220D or CDI and C200/220 D or CDI bio diesel vehicle equipment is available as special equipment (Code 921). Parts required ar in MB document SI00.40-P-0005A and SI00.40-P-0010A (neither of which I have access to on my work system since this feture isn't available in Aust).

In another document I found refers to the changed service intervals for bio diesel.

Engine oil: Same interval
Diesel Filter: every 30,000km/18,000mi. diesel filter must be changed shortly after converting to bio diesel if diesel has already been used for extended periods (10,000km/6,000mi)

You need to find a dealer who can lookup the 2 documents that I can't access because they list which engines can handle bio diesel (the seals in the fuel system are the problem).

You'll have to judge if the fuel cost savings justify the extra expense of more regular filter changes and the risk of damaging the expensive CDI components.

I hope this has been of some use to you.

LightMan · #7 10-21-2004, 09:36 AM

First of all, I've been running biodiesel in various blends since 2001. My E300 loves B20 with zero modifications or maintenance changes required. I have run a few tanks of b100 in it, and it sounds electric. However, IDI engines are better designed to handle biodiesel. I've seen some NASTY pictures of biodiesel(FAME) and WVO/SVO use in HPCR injection systems (like your CDI). There is a phenomenon called 'flocking' that has been known to occur in high pressure b100 situations, due to bio's wide variance in viscosity compared to regular diesel fuel. I did run b100 for 35k miles exclusively in my 2002 TDI without problems, but there is a significant power and mpg loss at that concentration. My advice is to feel good about doing your part for society and the environment, and your car, by running b20.

Aus makes a good point noting the differences. I know volkswagen in Europe and other countries approves RME - bio made from rapeseed oil (a relative of canola), and I'm not sure which MB approves.

FWIW - at least with the crappy diesel fuel quality here in the states, folks should be changing their fuel filters every 20k or less anyway IMO, considering they are about $8 or $10 max and comparing that to the price of injectors

dsimonl · #8 10-21-2004, 02:25 PM

Thanks for the replies, it doesn't sound too encouraging. I wonder how Willie Nelson's E320 is handling B100? I emailed the filling company he uses in Hawaii but did not get a response.

LightMan · #9 10-21-2004, 03:57 PM

DsimonL - what do you have against running blends? I know theoretically it would be nice to drive on 100% domestically produced renewable fuel, but any percentage you can use helps! Benefits as far as smooth engine etc etc are all available at b20...after that you reach a point of diminishing returns as they say..

dsimonl · #10 10-21-2004, 04:08 PM

Lightman: I have nothing against blends. There is only one station in Portland, OR that sells B30, but it is across town from me. Ideally, I'd like to make my own B100.

#11 10-21-2004, 04:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dsimonl

Lightman: I have nothing against blends. There is only one station in Portland, OR that sells B30, but it is across town from me. Ideally, I'd like to make my own B100.

We need to hook up
what station are you talking about? (curious)
I live in newberg and go to school at PSU daily (unfortunately)
keep your eyes open for the tan w126 roaring away at 3K+ RPM around traffic...I am the only one so far that I have seen with a tan of this body style in the area.
I am interested in making fuel as well...*curious*

mackbenz · #12 10-21-2004, 09:18 PM

i read that using, i think it was B7, actually increased mpg's due to the lubricity of the biodiesel. i tried it in my TDI and didn'y notice much change. but i don't drive the same way each tank

.

LightMan · #13 10-22-2004, 07:33 AM

I don't care how the marketers try to spin it, you won't get better mpg using biodiesel ever in my experience. I've used just about every blend possible. Just got 40 gallons yesterday at $3/gal

Talk about rape!

michakaveli · #14 10-22-2004, 06:14 PM

I called BurkeOil yesterday that is just outside of Boston, Ma in Chelsea and their B20 blend was $2.49/gallon. Too bad they didn't have any 5 gallon B100 pails though :-(

I'm gonna take a trip up there this week. Anyone else know of any BioD locations in CT. I know of th eco-op in Southington but there is a minimum purchase required o fI believe 30 gallons.

soypwrd · #15 05-12-2006, 05:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dsimonl

Thanks for the replies, it doesn't sound too encouraging. I wonder how Willie Nelson's E320 is handling B100? I emailed the filling company he uses in Hawaii but did not get a response.

Had lunch with two of the guys at Pacific Biodiesel a few weeks ago and they said Willie`s wife`s CDI is running strong on B100.