How to Convert a Farm to Biodiesel

Running a farm is hard work and it can get expensive. A good way to cut costs in the long run is to convert to biodiesel. This clean-burning fuel is good for the farm and good for the environment too. It's a win-win for most farms.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Metal fuel lines and gaskets
• Biodiesel delivery
• Biodiesel kit

1. Look at your equipment. Anything currently running on diesel fuel can be converted to biodiesel. This includes trucks, tractors and generators as well as any personal vehicles you drive on a daily basis.
2. Check your engine components. A high blend of biodiesel can wear down rubber over time so replace your fuel lines and gaskets with metal. This will keep your engine running smoothly.
3. Choose a blend. Your choice will depend on the climate at your farm and the benefits you're looking to gain from the biodiesel.
4. Find a biodiesel manufacturer. Many will deliver straight to your farm so have a storage place ready. Shop around and find a good deal, although no matter what you pay it should be less than standard diesel fuel.
5. Consider making your own biodiesel. To do this you'll need a biodiesel kit which could cost up to $5000. However once you get going you'll recoup this cost quickly.

Tips & Warnings

• Biodiesel is labeled with what blend it is. For example B100 is pure biodiesel while B20 is 20 percent biodiesel and 80 percent regular diesel. Higher percentages of biodiesel tend to gel during cold weather so B20 or lower is recommended during that time.
• High biodiesel blends act as a solvent removing diesel fuel build-up in your gas tank and fuel lines. When this build-up is removed it can get clogged in your fuel filter. To avoid this problem replace filters often when you start using biodiesel.