Rajan Wilcox
While it is not recommended to burn automatic transmission fluid (ATF) as fuel, some people have used it in their diesel engines. It is more common in older diesel engines, as newer common-rail fuel systems cannot handle ATF due to higher fuel pressures. Additionally, burning ATF can increase pollution and cause exhaust fumes that may be harmful. However, some people like Richard Snyder have successfully used ATF as their primary fuel in older diesel engines, reporting no problems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Use case | It is common in older, less complicated diesel engines but not in newer ones. |
| Purpose | Adding automatic transmission fluid to a diesel fuel tank is intended to preserve the fuel pump and add lubricity and detergents to the fuel. |
| Effectiveness | There are mixed reports on the effectiveness of adding automatic transmission fluid to diesel fuel. Some sources claim it has caused no problems, while others state it can cause extreme wear on injection systems and reduce engine lifespan. |
| Pollutants | The use of automatic transmission fluid as a fuel additive may increase pollution and produce harmful exhaust fumes and visible smoke. |
| Availability | Obtaining used automatic transmission fluid may be challenging as many shops use their waste fluids to fuel multi-fuel heaters. |
| Alternatives | Commercial diesel additives (e.g., Howes, Hot Shot, Power Kleen) can provide similar benefits without the risks associated with automatic transmission fluid. |
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What You'll Learn
Automatic transmission fluid as an alternative diesel fuel
While it is not recommended to burn automatic transmission fluid (ATF) as fuel, some people have used it as an alternative diesel fuel, particularly in older diesel engines.
ATF is a questionable alternative to diesel fuel. Richard Snyder, for example, has been using a 90% ATF and 10% diesel mixture as his primary fuel in his '02 7.3L Power Stroke for almost two years without any issues. He uses a 12-volt Tuthill transfer pump to pump used ATF from a 55-gallon drum through a three-micron spin-on filter to ensure no metal shavings get into the fuel system. He then adds a cetane booster to each tank and changes the fuel filters every 5,000 miles.
Snyder's experience suggests that ATF can be used as an alternative diesel fuel, at least in older diesel engines. However, it is important to note that common-rail fuel systems will not handle ATF, as they are more temperamental. Additionally, the use of ATF as fuel may increase pollution and cause visible smoke at idle.
Another consideration is the availability of used ATF, as many shops use their used fluids as fuel for their multi-fuel shop heaters. Furthermore, the long-term effects of running used ATF as fuel are unknown, and it may cause extreme wear on injection systems in higher-pressure common-rail engines.
Overall, while ATF has been used successfully as an alternative diesel fuel in some older engines, it is not a widely recommended practice due to potential issues with compatibility, pollution, and unknown long-term effects.
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The process of pumping automatic transmission fluid
However, if you choose to use ATF, the process begins with sourcing a suitable container, such as a 55-gallon drum, and filling it with used ATF. The ATF is then pumped through a filter to remove any metal shavings or contaminants. A 12-volt transfer pump, such as the Tuthill pump offered by Northern Tool and Equipment, is commonly used for this step. The filtered ATF is then pumped into the vehicle's fuel tank using a fuel pump nozzle. It is important to ensure that the ATF is compatible with your vehicle's fuel system, especially in newer models with common-rail fuel systems.
Some additional steps may be required, such as adding a cetane booster to the fuel tank and regularly changing the fuel filters. It is also important to note that ATF may not burn as efficiently as diesel fuel, which can result in a loss of power.
Manually pumping transmission fluid is also an option, although it can be a messy process. It typically requires two people and involves removing the transmission cooler line and draining the old fluid into a bucket. New ATF is then poured through the dipstick fill tube, and the vehicle is started to add fluid. Once fresh ATF begins to come out of the cooler line, the process is stopped, and the cooler line is reconnected.
There are also transmission fluid pumps available on the market, such as the VEVOR Transmission Fluid Extractor Dispenser, which can make the process of extracting and refilling transmission fluid much easier and less tedious. These pumps are designed to work with various vehicles and can save time and effort in maintaining your vehicle's transmission.
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The history of the diesel engine
While it is not recommended to use automatic transmission fluid as a fuel alternative in modern diesel engines, it has been done in older diesel engines. Richard Snyder, for instance, has been using a 90% ATF, 10% diesel mixture in his 2002 7.3L Power Stroke for nearly two years with no issues. However, it is important to note that common-rail fuel systems cannot handle ATF, and it may cause extreme wear on injection systems. Additionally, pollution and exhaust fumes may increase, and it may be challenging to acquire used ATF.
Now, onto the history of the diesel engine. The diesel engine, named after German engineer Rudolf Diesel, is an internal combustion engine that ignites diesel fuel through the elevated temperature of the air in the cylinder due to mechanical compression. Rudolf Diesel, from a young age, had a keen interest in engineering. After studying at various schools, he received a scholarship from the Royal Bavarian Polytechnic of Munich, where he attended lectures by Carl von Linde, who explained the inefficiencies of steam engines. Inspired by his professor, Diesel began researching thermal and fuel efficiency.
In the 1890s, Diesel introduced a prototype, and in 1897, he produced the first diesel engine model. This engine aimed to improve efficiency by converting heat into power. Diesel's engine demonstrated a significant improvement over steam engines, and it quickly became one of the most common engines used in power generation applications.
Over the years, the diesel engine has undergone numerous upgrades and has been widely adopted in various industries, including automobiles, locomotives, ships, and electricity generation plants. Since the 1970s energy crisis, diesel engines have become increasingly popular due to their higher fuel efficiency.
Companies like Cummins, founded by Clessie Cummins in 1919, have played a significant role in advancing diesel technology. Cummins successfully adapted Rudolf Diesel's design to create innovative engines, solidifying the diesel engine's place in shaping the modern world.
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The benefits of using automatic transmission fluid
While it is not recommended to burn Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) as fuel, some people have been using it as an alternative to diesel fuel, especially in older diesel engines. ATF has friction additives and lubricating properties that can benefit older diesel engines.
ATF has been used as an alternative fuel in diesel engines, particularly older diesel engines with mechanical fuel injection and lower pressures. It is also known to be used in common-rail engines, but with potential drawbacks. Here are some benefits of using ATF in diesel fuel:
Cost savings:
ATF can be obtained for free from transmission shops, local shops, or dealerships, offering a cost-saving alternative to diesel fuel, especially when diesel prices are unstable.
Lubrication and protection:
ATF contains friction additives and provides lubrication to the engine's moving parts. This can help reduce wear and tear, protect metal parts from grinding down, and ensure smooth gear shifting.
Engine performance:
The lubricating properties of ATF can contribute to quieter engine operation and potentially enhance engine performance by reducing friction and improving gear shifts.
Alternative fuel source:
For those seeking alternative fuel sources, ATF offers a readily available option, especially for those with access to used ATF. This can be particularly advantageous in remote areas or during fuel shortages.
It is important to note that while some individuals have reported success in using ATF as diesel fuel, it is not a widely recommended practice. There may be potential risks and long-term effects on engine durability, especially in common-rail engines with higher fuel pressures. It is always advisable to consult a diesel fuel system specialist or a professional mechanic before considering such alternatives.
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The drawbacks of using automatic transmission fluid
While it is possible to use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) as an alternative fuel in diesel engines, there are several drawbacks and risks associated with this practice. Firstly, it is important to note that ATF is not recommended to be burned as fuel by experts and manufacturers. Common-rail fuel systems, which are found in newer diesel engines, cannot handle ATF due to their higher fuel pressures and more temperamental nature. Using ATF in these systems can cause extreme wear on injection systems and reduce the lifespan of the engine.
Another drawback is the potential impact on the environment and pollution levels. Burning ATF can increase pollution and produce harmful exhaust fumes, which may pose health and environmental risks. Additionally, some smoke may be visible at idle, indicating incomplete combustion and further contributing to air pollution.
Obtaining ATF for fuel may also be challenging. Many shops and dealerships use their used ATF as fuel for their multi-fuel shop heaters, making it difficult for individuals to access sufficient quantities for their vehicles. This limited availability can be a hindrance, especially when planning longer trips that require frequent refuelling.
Furthermore, ATF may not be compatible with all diesel engines, especially newer models. It is primarily used in older, less complicated diesel engines that had mechanical fuel injection and ran at lower pressures. Modern diesel engines with common-rail fuel systems require clean diesel fuel and are not designed to handle ATF. Using ATF in these systems can lead to performance issues and potential damage.
Lastly, ATF may not burn as efficiently or completely as diesel fuel. Some users have reported experiencing a loss of power when running on 100% ATF mixtures. This could be attributed to the fact that ATF does not burn as readily or completely as diesel, resulting in reduced engine performance and potential fuel system issues. Therefore, while ATF may be a creative solution for alternative fuel, it is important to carefully consider the drawbacks and potential risks before using it in diesel engines.
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Frequently asked questions
While it is possible to use automatic transmission fluid (ATF) as an alternative to diesel fuel, it is not recommended. It may cause extreme wear on injection systems and is not suitable for common-rail fuel systems.
ATF was sometimes used in older diesel engines to preserve the fuel pump and add detergents and lubricity to the fuel.
In addition to potential damage to the engine, using ATF as diesel fuel can increase pollution and cause visible smoke at idle. It may also be difficult to obtain used ATF, and it is not legal in some areas.
