Biodiesel Fuel

Biodiesel is a fuel comprised of monoalkyl esters of long chain fatty acids derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. Biodiesel blends are biodiesel mixed with petroleum diesel fuel on a volume basis.

Before using fuel containing biodiesel review the Biodiesel Use Requirements and Recommendations in this Operator’s Manual.

Environmental laws / regulations may encourage or prohibit the use of biofuels. Operators should consult with appropriate governmental authorities prior to using biofuels.

US / Canada

While 5% blends are preferred (B5), biodiesel concentrations up to a 20% blend (B20) in petroleum diesel fuel can be used in all John Deere engines. Biodiesel blends up to B20 can be used ONLY if the biodiesel (100% biodiesel or B100) meets ASTM D6751 (US), EN 14214 (EU), or equivalent specification. Expect a 2% reduction in power and a 3% reduction in fuel economy when using B20.

Biodiesel concentrations above B20 may harm the engine’s emission control systems and should not be used in the US and Canada. Risks may include, but not be limited to, more frequent stationary regeneration, soot accumulation, and increased intervals for ash removal.

Biodiesel users in the U.S. are strongly encouraged to purchase biodiesel blends from a BQ9000 Certified Marketer and sourced from a BQ9000 Accredited Producer (as certified by the National Biodiesel Board). Certified Marketers and Accredited Producers can be found at the following website: http://www.bq9000.org.

Other regions

John Deere engines can operate on biodiesel blends below and above B20 (up to 100% biodiesel). Operate at levels above B20 ONLY if the biodiesel meets the EN 14214 specification (primarily available in Europe). Engines operating on biodiesel blends above B20 may not fully comply with all applicable emissions regulations. Expect up to a 12% reduction in power and an 18% reduction in fuel economy when using 100% biodiesel. John Deere approved fuel conditioners containing detergent/dispersant additives are required.

Biodiesel Use Requirements and Recommendations

The petroleum diesel portion of all biodiesel blends must meet the requirements of ASTM D975 (US) or EN 590 (EU) commercial standard.

When using biodiesel fuel, the fuel filter may require more frequent replacement due to premature plugging. Check engine oil level daily prior to starting engine. A rising oil level may indicate fuel dilution of the engine oil.

John Deere approved fuel conditioners containing detergent/dispersant additives are required when using B20 blends and recommended when using lower biodiesel blends. Biodiesel blends up to B20 must be used within 90 days of the date of biodiesel manufacture. Biodiesel blends above B20 must be used within 45 days from the date of biodiesel manufacture.

When using biodiesel blends up to B20 the following must be considered:

• Cold weather flow degradation
• Stability and storage issues (moisture absorption, oxidation, microbial growth)
• Possible filter restriction and plugging (usually a problem when first switching to biodiesel on used engines.)

Request a certificate of analysis from your fuel distributor to ensure that the fuel is compliant with the specifications provided in this Operator’s Manual.

Consult your John Deere dealer for approved fuel conditioners to improve storage and performance with biodiesel fuels.

The following must also be considered when using biodiesel blends above B20:

• Possible coking and/or blocked injector nozzles, resulting in power loss and engine misfire if John Deere approved fuel conditioners containing detergent/dispersant additives are not used
• Possible crankcase oil dilution, requiring more frequent oil changes
• Possible lacquering and/or seizure of internal components
• Possible formation of sludge and sediments
• Possible thermal oxidation of fuel at elevated temperatures
• Possible compatibility issues with other materials (including copper, lead, zinc, tin, brass, and bronze) used in fuel handling equipment
• Possible reduction in water separator efficiency
• Possible damage to paint if exposed to biodiesel

IMPORTANT: Raw pressed vegetable oils are NOT acceptable for use as fuel in any concentration in John Deere engines. Their use could cause engine failure.