Rajan Wilcox
While it is not recommended to burn automatic transmission fluid (ATF) as fuel, some people have experimented with using ATF as an alternative to diesel fuel. Some claim that a mixture of ATF and diesel fuel can help keep injectors clean and prolong engine life, while others argue that it may cause extreme wear and tear on injection systems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mixing transmission fluid with diesel fuel | Possible, but questionable |
| Mechanics' advice | Add a quart of transmission fluid with every 20 gallons of diesel fuel |
| Effect on injectors | No issues reported |
| Effect on engine | Potential for extreme wear on injection systems and reduced engine life |
| Alternative fuels for diesel engines | Biodiesel, vegetable oil, peanut oil, and other additives |
| ATF as an alternative fuel | Used ATF can be burned as fuel, but may not burn as readily as diesel |
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What You'll Learn
- Some mechanics recommend adding transmission fluid to diesel fuel during fill-ups
- It is not recommended to burn transmission fluid as fuel
- Some vehicle owners use a mixture of 90% transmission fluid and 10% diesel
- Pre-common-rail diesel engines can burn alternative fuels
- Owners of marine engines are curious about using transmission fluid as fuel
Some mechanics recommend adding transmission fluid to diesel fuel during fill-ups
For example, one user reported that they had put 120,000 miles on their Chevy 2500 truck without any injector issues after following their mechanic's advice to add transmission fluid to their diesel fuel. Another individual with a Dodge pickup truck that had accumulated 517,000 miles on the odometer credited their lack of injector problems to this practice.
However, it is important to note that not everyone agrees with this method. Some people question the effectiveness of adding transmission fluid to diesel fuel, suggesting that it may not be necessary for modern diesel engines. One user pointed out that diesel fuel formulations have changed over the years, and it would be worthwhile to understand how these changes might impact the use of additives like transmission fluid.
Furthermore, an expert from the Chevron Fuel Technology Team, Francis Healy, cautioned against using automatic transmission fluid (ATF) as fuel. Healy attributed the practice to the lack of lubricity in early mixes of ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel, which has since been addressed by fuel manufacturers. He speculated that running used ATF as fuel could lead to extreme wear on injection systems and reduced engine lifespan, particularly in common-rail engines.
Ultimately, while some mechanics and vehicle owners advocate for adding transmission fluid to diesel fuel, others remain sceptical. It is essential to consider the potential risks and long-term effects on engine performance and durability before adopting this practice.
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It is not recommended to burn transmission fluid as fuel
One of the main issues with burning transmission fluid as fuel is the lack of lubricity in early mixes. However, fuel manufacturers have since added necessary lubricants during refinement, so this is no longer a valid reason to mix transmission fluid with diesel fuel. Burning transmission fluid as fuel could also cause extreme wear on injection systems and lead to engine failure under higher fuel pressures, according to Francis Healy of the Chevron Fuel Technology Team.
Additionally, transmission fluid may not burn as readily as diesel fuel, which could result in a loss of power. This is supported by an example of a user who experienced a loss in power when running a 100% used ATF mixture, emitting only a faint, light haze of smoke that disappeared during freeway driving. It is also important to note that while some mechanics may recommend adding transmission fluid to diesel fuel, this is not advised by all manufacturers.
Furthermore, the long-term effects of burning transmission fluid as fuel are still unknown. Even though some individuals have reported success in burning transmission fluid as fuel without any apparent issues, this does not guarantee that future problems will not arise. It is important to consider the potential risks before making any modifications to your fuel system, as they may void warranties or cause unforeseen issues down the line.
In conclusion, while it may be tempting to burn transmission fluid as fuel, especially given the rising cost of diesel, it is not recommended due to the potential risks and unknown long-term effects. It is always advisable to consult with a trusted mechanic or diesel engine specialist before making any fuel modifications and to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific vehicle.
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Some vehicle owners use a mixture of 90% transmission fluid and 10% diesel
Mixing transmission fluid with diesel fuel is a practice that some vehicle owners have experimented with, particularly those with older diesel engines. While it is not a recommended practice by fuel manufacturers, some people have reported success with a mixture of 90% transmission fluid and 10% diesel.
Richard Snyder, for instance, has been using a 90% ATF and 10% diesel mixture as his primary fuel for nearly two years without any reported problems. He employs a system that involves using a 12-volt Tuthill transfer pump to draw used ATF from a 55-gallon drum through a three-micron spin-on filter, ensuring no metal shavings contaminate the fuel system. He then adds a cetane booster to each tank of fuel and uses his vehicle's battery to power the pump, allowing him to refuel wherever he can access used ATF. Additionally, he is diligent about changing his fuel filters every 5,000 miles and always carries a spare.
Snyder's experience suggests that it is possible to operate a diesel engine on a mixture of transmission fluid and diesel fuel. However, it is important to note that this practice may not be suitable for all diesel engines, especially newer models. Some mechanics have advised against the use of additives in diesel fuel, as it could potentially shorten the engine's life. Additionally, Francis Healy of the Chevron Fuel Technology Team has warned that burning ATF with diesel could lead to extreme wear on injection systems in common-rail engines.
While there are potential risks associated with mixing transmission fluid and diesel fuel, some older diesel engines may benefit from the added lubrication provided by the transmission fluid. This practice may be more common in marine environments, where older tractor engines were designed to operate on fuels with higher lubricity, such as high-sulfur diesel. However, it is always advisable to consult a qualified mechanic or diesel fuel expert before experimenting with alternative fuels or additives to ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle's engine.
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Pre-common-rail diesel engines can burn alternative fuels
While it is not recommended to mix transmission fluid with diesel fuel, some people have reported doing so without any issues. However, the focus of this discussion is on pre-common-rail diesel engines and their ability to burn alternative fuels.
Pre-common-rail diesel engines, which include older mechanical systems, injected fuel into a pre-combustion chamber before it fed the main combustion chamber. These engines relied on the fuel pump for pressure, timing, and quantity. As such, they can likely burn alternative fuels, although this may not be recommended by manufacturers or mechanics.
The common rail direct injection (CRDI) system, on the other hand, injects fuel directly into the combustion chamber. This system provides flexibility in controlling injection timing and rate, leading to better power, fuel consumption, and emission control. The common rail system is now the primary fuel system used in light-duty vehicles due to its advantages in fuel economy and power density.
The CRDI system also has improved fuel filtration, ensuring a higher level of purity in the injected fuel. This results in a cleaner and more durable engine with improved long-term reliability. Additionally, the CRDI system allows for fuel pressure to be independent of engine speed and load conditions, further enhancing flexibility and performance.
In conclusion, while pre-common-rail diesel engines may have the ability to burn alternative fuels, modern common-rail systems offer significant advantages in terms of fuel efficiency, emissions, and engine durability. It is always recommended to refer to the vehicle's manual and manufacturer guidelines before making any modifications or using alternative fuels.
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Owners of marine engines are curious about using transmission fluid as fuel
Some people have reported success with using transmission fluid as fuel. For example, Richard Snyder has been using a 90% ATF, 10% diesel mixture as his primary fuel for nearly two years without any problems. Similarly, a user on the Trawler Forum reported that they had put 120,000 miles on their truck by adding a quart of transmission fluid to every 20 gallons of fuel during fill-up, without any injector issues.
On the other hand, experts advise against using transmission fluid as fuel. Francis Healy of the Chevron Fuel Technology Team attributes the practice of blending ATF with ULSD to lubricity reasons. However, he points out that fuel manufacturers now add necessary lubricants during refinement, making this practice unnecessary. Healy also speculates that under higher fuel pressures, the engine won't last and can cause extreme wear on injection systems.
It is important to note that while some people have had positive experiences with using transmission fluid as fuel, there is a lack of scientific research on its long-term effects. As one user on the Trawler Forum pointed out, it would be beneficial to see how the use of ATF affects diesel from the tank, through the engine, and out the exhaust. Therefore, while it may be tempting to experiment with alternative fuels, it is advisable to proceed with caution and consult experts before making any changes to your engine's fuel system.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not recommended to mix transmission fluid with diesel fuel as it may damage your engine. However, some people have reported doing so with no issues.
This might be done to increase lubrication, especially in older diesel engines that were designed to operate on high-sulfur fuels.
Potential risks include reduced engine performance and increased wear on injection systems.
Yes, some people use biodiesel, vegetable oil, or other additives to improve the performance of their diesel engines.
