Rajan Wilcox
Adding transmission fluid to diesel fuel is a practice that has been discussed and debated by diesel vehicle owners and enthusiasts. Some people believe that adding a small amount of transmission fluid to the fuel tank can help preserve the fuel pump and improve the performance of their vehicles, especially in older diesel engines with mechanical fuel injection. On the other hand, some people argue that this practice can be harmful to the injectors and is not suitable for newer diesel engines with common-rail fuel systems. The main goal of adding transmission fluid is to improve lubricity and add detergents to the fuel, which some people believe can be achieved more effectively and safely by using dedicated fuel additives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Advantages | Preserves the fuel pump, adds detergents and lubricity to the fuel, reduces engine noise, lowers EGTs, saves money at the pump |
| Disadvantages | May blow up injectors, may cause loss of power, increased pollution and harmful exhaust fumes, smoke may be visible, may be difficult to source ATF |
| Use Cases | Common in older, less complicated diesel engines, especially heavy machinery and bigger trucks |
| Alternative Options | Fuel additives (Stanadyne, B5, B20), diesel additive (Howes, Hot Shot, Power Kleen) |
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What You'll Learn
Transmission fluid as a fuel additive
Transmission fluid, also known as automatic transmission fluid (ATF), has been used by some as a fuel additive in diesel engines. While it is not a common practice, it has been done by some vehicle owners, especially those with older diesel engines.
The idea behind using transmission fluid as a fuel additive is to add detergents and lubricity to the fuel, which can help preserve the fuel pump and injection system. Some people also believe that it can help improve mileage and power, as well as reduce engine noise and exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs).
However, using transmission fluid as a fuel additive is not without its risks and drawbacks. Firstly, it is important to note that transmission fluid is not designed to be combusted, and as such, it may not burn as cleanly or efficiently as diesel fuel. This can lead to increased pollution and the release of harmful exhaust fumes. It is also important to consider that while transmission fluid may be effective in older, less complicated diesel engines with mechanical fuel injection, it is not suitable for newer common-rail fuel systems, as they are more temperamental and can be damaged by the practice.
Additionally, the practice of using transmission fluid as a fuel additive can be inconvenient and time-consuming. Those who use transmission fluid as fuel typically have to source it from local shops or dealerships, and it may be difficult to find enough to make it a sustainable practice. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that no metal shavings or other contaminants find their way into the fuel system, which requires the use of filters and additional equipment.
In conclusion, while transmission fluid can be used as a fuel additive in diesel engines, it is not a recommended practice due to the risks and drawbacks associated with it. There are also alternative fuel additives available on the market that can provide similar benefits without the same level of risk. As such, it is important for vehicle owners to carefully consider the potential consequences before using transmission fluid as a fuel additive.
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Pros and cons of using transmission fluid in diesel fuel
Pros
- It can be used as an alternative to diesel fuel, especially in older diesel vehicles (pre-common-rail).
- It can help preserve the fuel pump, adding detergents and lubricity to the fuel.
- It may result in a quieter engine and lower exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs).
- It can be obtained for free from some transmission shops and dealerships.
Cons
- It is not recommended for newer diesel vehicles with common-rail fuel systems as they are more temperamental and may not handle it well.
- It can increase pollution and produce harmful exhaust fumes, with visible smoke at idle.
- It may be difficult to obtain used ATF as some shops use their used fluids for alternative purposes, such as fuel for shop heaters.
- ATF was not intended to be combusted, so there is a lack of research on its combustion properties and potential impact on engine performance and fuel efficiency.
- It may not be a suitable option in areas where off-road diesel is dyed red, as most ATF is also red in color, making it difficult to distinguish between the two.
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The cost-effectiveness of transmission fluid as diesel fuel
Using transmission fluid as diesel fuel can be a cost-effective alternative for those with diesel-powered vehicles. While it is not recommended for newer diesel models, particularly those with common-rail fuel systems, it can be a viable option for older diesel engines.
The practice of using transmission fluid, specifically Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), as diesel fuel is not a new concept. Some people, like Richard Snyder, have been using ATF as their primary fuel in older diesel engines without any reported issues. Snyder has been running a 90% ATF and 10% diesel mixture in his '02 7.3L Power Stroke for nearly two years, claiming that it has caused no problems and has even resulted in some benefits.
One of the main advantages of using ATF as diesel fuel is the potential cost savings. Diesel fuel prices can be unstable and fluctuate, while ATF can be obtained for free from various sources, such as local shops and dealerships. This makes ATF a financially attractive alternative, especially for those with access to used ATF.
However, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks and limitations of using ATF as diesel fuel. Firstly, ATF was not designed to be combusted, and as a result, it may not burn as readily or efficiently as diesel fuel. This could lead to a loss in power and mileage. Additionally, the use of ATF may result in increased pollution and the release of harmful exhaust fumes, which is a significant concern for both the environment and human health.
Furthermore, ATF is typically red in colour, which can be problematic if diesel fuel in a particular area is also dyed red. This could lead to confusion and potential legal issues if the use of ATF as diesel fuel is not permitted or regulated.
In conclusion, while using transmission fluid as diesel fuel can offer cost savings, particularly for older diesel engines, it is important to weigh these financial benefits against the potential drawbacks. These include decreased performance, environmental concerns, and legal considerations. Overall, the cost-effectiveness of this practice depends on various factors, and individuals should carefully consider all aspects before making a decision.
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The impact on engine performance
Firstly, it is important to note that transmission fluid is not intended to be used as a fuel source. As such, there are concerns about the potential impact on engine performance. Some people claim that using transmission fluid in diesel fuel can help lubricate the fuel pump and improve the lifters' performance, especially in older diesel engines with mechanical fuel injection that ran lower pressures. This practice is less common in newer diesel engines with common-rail fuel systems, as they are more temperamental and may not handle the transmission fluid well.
One of the potential benefits of adding transmission fluid to diesel fuel is improved lubrication. Some people believe that transmission fluid can add lubricity to the fuel, reducing friction and wear on engine components. This can be especially beneficial in older diesel engines that may not have sophisticated lubrication systems. However, it is important to note that modern diesel fuels already contain lubricity additives, so the need for additional lubrication may be less significant.
Another factor to consider is the potential impact on combustion. Diesel fuel is designed to burn efficiently, with a higher British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating compared to transmission fluid. This means that diesel fuel burns sooner and longer than transmission fluid, resulting in more complete combustion. Using transmission fluid as a fuel source may result in incomplete combustion, leading to reduced engine performance and increased emissions. In addition, the transmission fluid's lower BTU rating may result in a loss of power and mileage.
While some people claim that using a mixture of transmission fluid and diesel fuel has not caused any issues, there are also reports of negative consequences. One common issue is the failure of injectors, which can be costly to repair or replace. Additionally, the use of transmission fluid as a fuel source may void warranties on newer vehicles, leaving owners financially liable for any repairs or damage.
In conclusion, while the addition of transmission fluid to diesel fuel may have some potential benefits, such as improved lubrication in older diesel engines, there are also significant risks to engine performance. Incomplete combustion, reduced power and mileage, increased emissions, and the potential failure of injectors are all factors that need to be carefully considered before implementing this practice. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified mechanic or diesel specialist before making any modifications to your fuel system.
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Environmental impact of using transmission fluid in diesel fuel
While adding transmission fluid to diesel fuel can help preserve the fuel pump, it is not recommended due to its potential negative impact on the environment. Transmission fluid contains chemical additives and heavy metals that can contaminate soil and water sources if not properly disposed of. These contaminants can harm aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and even find their way into drinking water supplies, potentially causing respiratory issues and other health problems for humans. Improper disposal methods, such as burning transmission fluid, release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to air pollution and further degrading air quality.
Additionally, the use of transmission fluid in diesel fuel can increase pollution and exhaust fumes, leading to visible smoke during idling. This can have detrimental effects on air quality and contribute to respiratory issues, especially in areas with high traffic congestion. While some individuals have reported success in using a mixture of transmission fluid and diesel, it is important to consider the environmental implications of this practice.
The disposal of transmission fluid is a critical aspect of environmental sustainability in the automotive industry. Responsible disposal methods include utilizing recycling centers, working with reputable auto repair shops, participating in local hazardous waste collection events, or using DIY recycling kits. By promoting environmentally conscious choices, we can reduce the negative impact of transmission fluid disposal and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable planet for future generations.
Furthermore, it is important to note that transmission fluid is designed to lubricate, cool, and clean the transmission system, ensuring the proper function of gears and clutches. Using it as a fuel additive may have unintended consequences on the transmission's performance and longevity, potentially leading to overheating and premature wear and tear. In conclusion, while the addition of transmission fluid to diesel fuel may offer certain advantages, its environmental and mechanical implications make it a questionable practice. Prioritizing environmentally conscious alternatives and proper disposal methods is crucial for mitigating the ecological impact of automotive maintenance.
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Frequently asked questions
It is not recommended to put transmission fluid in diesel fuel, especially in newer diesel models with common-rail fuel systems. This practice was more common in older, less complicated diesel engines.
Some people add transmission fluid to their diesel fuel as a way to preserve the fuel pump and add detergents and lubricity to the fuel.
Some people claim that using a mixture of transmission fluid and diesel fuel can help reduce exhaust gas temperatures (EGTs) and make the engine run quieter. It is also touted as a way to save money at the pump, as transmission fluid can be obtained for free from some shops and dealerships.
Yes, there are several potential risks associated with this practice. Firstly, it can increase pollution and produce harmful exhaust fumes. Secondly, it may not be suitable for newer diesel engines with common-rail fuel systems, as these are more temperamental and can fail to handle the mixture. Lastly, it can be difficult to obtain used transmission fluid, as many shops use it for their own purposes.
