Ameer Randolph
While diesel fuel is already an alternative to gasoline, some people are looking for ways to make it even more cost-effective by adding ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) to their diesel fuel. This practice is more common among owners of older diesel vehicles, as ATF is not recommended for modern fuel injection systems. Proponents of adding ATF to diesel fuel claim that it can improve pump and injector longevity and clean the fuel system, while opponents argue that it can cause more problems than it solves, including leaving behind ash deposits and causing trouble for high-pressure fuel injection pumps.
Characteristics and values of putting ATF in diesel fuel
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective | ATF is free to use if you own a diesel-powered vehicle |
| Mileage | ATF may increase mileage |
| Power | ATF may not decrease power |
| EGTs | ATF may decrease EGTs by 100 degrees |
| Engine noise | ATF may make the engine run quieter |
| Fuel separation | ATF will not help with water/fuel separation |
| Start-ups | ATF may cause difficult cold start-ups |
| Injector longevity | ATF may improve injector longevity |
| Ash deposits | ATF may leave ash deposits behind |
| Engine wear | ATF may cause premature component wear |
| Fuel colour | ATF will turn fuel red |
| Fuel system integrity | ATF may compromise the integrity of the fuel system |
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What You'll Learn
ATF as a fuel supplement may cause premature component wear
While some people add ATF to their diesel fuel as a supplement, it is not without its risks. ATF was not designed to be burned as fuel and will leave behind hydrocarbon deposits or ash (essentially soot) that will not burn cleanly. This can cause issues with water/fuel separation and make cold start-ups difficult.
ATF also contains friction modifiers, which are beneficial to an automatic transmission but are not suitable for injection pumps with tight tolerances. Modern diesel injection pumps operate under much higher pressures and are made from different materials, so ATF can cause more problems than it solves.
In addition, ATF does not burn as readily as diesel, which can lead to a loss of power. While some people report improved fuel efficiency and a quieter engine when using ATF, it is important to consider the potential long-term effects. The savings at the pump could potentially be lost in costly repairs later on if the engine is damaged.
While it is possible to add ATF to diesel fuel, it is a questionable practice that may cause premature component wear and compromise the integrity of the fuel system. It is recommended to use additives specifically designed for modern diesel engines and to consult a mechanic or a professional before making any changes to your fuel system.
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ATF is not intended to be combusted
ATF, or Automatic Transmission Fluid, is a type of oil used in automatic transmissions. While some people suggest adding ATF to diesel fuel, this is not recommended by experts. One of the main reasons is that ATF is not intended to be combusted.
ATF is a high-detergent oil that contains paraffinic oils, which are long chains of hydrocarbons. When burned, ATF leaves behind hydrocarbon deposits that do not burn cleanly, resulting in ash or soot buildup. This can lead to potential engine issues and increased maintenance costs.
Additionally, ATF does not burn as readily as diesel fuel. Research has shown that diesel has a lower flammable limit (LFL) and a higher upper flammable limit (UFL), meaning it burns sooner and longer than ATF, resulting in more complete combustion. While some individuals claim that using ATF as fuel has improved their mileage and engine performance, these benefits may be outweighed by the potential drawbacks.
Furthermore, ATF is not designed for injection pumps with tight tolerances. Modern diesel injection pumps operate at much higher pressures and are made from different materials. Adding ATF to these systems can cause more problems than it solves.
Instead of ATF, it is recommended to use additives specifically designed for modern diesel engines. These additives can improve lubricity and engine performance without the negative consequences associated with ATF. It is also important to note that while older diesel engines may be more tolerant of ATF due to lower injection pressures, the long-term effects are still unknown, and any short-term gains could be lost to costly repairs in the future.
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ATF can leave ash deposits in the engine
The practice of adding ATF to diesel fuel is not recommended due to the risk of leaving ash deposits in the engine. ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) was once a simple oil product, but modern ATF formulations have evolved into complex concoctions that are not designed to be burned as fuel.
The primary concern with using ATF as a diesel fuel additive is the potential for ash buildup. ATF contains paraffinic oils, which are long chains of hydrocarbons. When ATF is burned, these hydrocarbons can leave behind ash or soot deposits in the engine. This ash buildup can lead to reduced engine performance and even catastrophic engine failure over time.
While some individuals, particularly those using older diesel engines, have reported successfully running their vehicles on ATF and diesel blends without issues, it is important to understand the potential risks. Modern diesel injection pumps operate at much higher pressures and are made from different materials than older engines. The use of ATF in these modern engines can cause more problems than it solves.
Furthermore, ATF was not designed for combustion, and as such, it does not burn as cleanly or efficiently as diesel fuel. Diesel fuel has a higher British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating, which means it burns sooner and longer, resulting in more complete combustion. ATF, on the other hand, may not burn as readily, leading to potential issues with cold startups and water/fuel separation.
While ATF may have been used as a diesel fuel additive in the past, modern engines and ATF formulations have made this practice less effective and potentially harmful to your engine. It is always recommended to use fuel additives that are specifically designed for diesel engines, as these products will provide the necessary lubrication and performance enhancements without the risk of damaging ash deposits.
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ATF may not be suitable for modern diesel injection pumps
While adding Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) to diesel fuel may be a cost-effective alternative, it may not be suitable for modern diesel injection pumps. Modern diesel injection pumps operate at much higher pressures and are made from different materials. ATF was not designed to be burned as fuel and may cause more problems than it solves.
Firstly, ATF contains paraffinic oils, which are long chains of hydrocarbons. When burned, ATF will leave behind ash or soot deposits that do not burn cleanly. This can lead to potential repairs that may outweigh the initial savings. Additionally, ATF does not aid in water/fuel separation, and cold start-ups may be more challenging.
Secondly, ATF does not burn as readily as diesel. Diesel has a lower ignition point and burns sooner and longer than ATF, resulting in more complete combustion. This can impact the engine's performance, causing a loss of power and potentially increasing emissions.
Thirdly, ATF contains friction modifiers intended for clutch packs in transmissions, not injection pumps with tight tolerances. This can compromise the integrity of the fuel system and cause premature component wear.
Finally, while ATF may have been used successfully in older diesel engines, today's ATF formulations are different. Modern ATF is not suitable for addition to fuel, and there are better and cheaper alternatives specifically designed for diesel engines.
In conclusion, while ATF may be tempting as a cost-saving measure, it is not recommended for modern diesel injection pumps due to the potential for engine damage, increased emissions, and the availability of more suitable additives. It is essential to use additives designed for modern diesel engines to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your vehicle.
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ATF can improve pump and injector longevity
While ATF can be used as an alternative fuel in diesel engines, it is not recommended by many experts. ATF, or Automatic Transmission Fluid, is not designed to be combusted and can leave behind hydrocarbon deposits and soot. It also does not aid in water/fuel separation and can make cold start-ups difficult.
However, one of the benefits of adding ATF to diesel fuel is its potential to improve pump and injector longevity. ATF is a high-detergent oil, and its use as a fuel supplement can help clean the fuel system. One source recommends adding 1 ounce of ATF for every 2 gallons of diesel fuel, which equates to about a half-quart per fill.
It is important to note that modern diesel injection pumps operate at much higher pressures and are made from different materials, so using ATF can cause more problems than it solves. Additionally, ATF contains friction modifiers that are intended for clutch packs in transmissions, not injection pumps with tight tolerances.
While some older diesel mechanics may recommend ATF for its cleaning properties, it is important to consider that today's ATF is different from yesterday's ATF. Newer formulations may not have the same effects, and there is a risk of creating a mess in the fuel system that cannot be easily rectified.
Overall, while ATF may provide some benefits in terms of pump and injector longevity, it is not a recommended long-term solution due to the potential for component wear and the availability of better alternatives designed for modern diesel engines.
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Frequently asked questions
ATF stands for Automatic Transmission Fluid. It has been used as an alternative fuel source for diesel engines, particularly older ones, as it is free to use.
Some sources claim that adding ATF to diesel fuel can improve pump and injector longevity, as well as clean the fuel system. It is also said to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy.
ATF is not intended to be combusted, so it may leave behind ash deposits and not burn cleanly. It may also cause premature component wear and compromise the integrity of the fuel system. ATF also turns diesel fuel red, which may be an issue in states that check fuel colour as a tax indicator.
