This is a must read for anyone who is currently running or seriously thinking about running his or her Mercedes diesel on straight vegetable oil (SVO). This is a followup to my introductory guide, Dine Out with Your Diesel. It contains a higher level of technical information on the problems and challenges of long term operations. It has been said that knowledge is power. This is really true when running on SVO / WVO. If you do not have any knowledge of how your system works or what needs to be done to maintain it, then you are going to literally lose your power. The system will only be as reliable as YOU make it. Even if you plan to have your mechanic install your components, learn as much as you can during the installation process and then plan to keep abreast of future developments in this fledging field. A full understanding of how your system is installed and operates is the best Rx for avoiding trouble down the road.
In this book I will share with you a good dose of theory, components needed to complete your conversion, installation procedures, and operating tips that should help you get the most out of your conversion. Keep in mind this is NOT an installation instruction manual. I would rather call it an information manual and its purpose is to inform you in broad terms what is required to convert and operate your diesel on straight vegetable oil fuel. I begin with a some theory on viscosity, heat and filtering, discuss in detail the differences between a single tank and dual tank conversion, and then move into the kit options available and steps required to install and operate one successfully. For easy review the appendix includes the same Q and A that I have posted on my website.
Table of Contents:
- Chapter 1: SVO advanced theory of operation
- Chapter 2: Types of SVO conversions
- Chapter 3: Conversion components and modifications required
- Chapter 4: SVO advanced operating procedures and troubleshooting
- Appendix: Q and A
If you are building or considering building your own kit then the information contained here should be a good resource. If you already own a Mercedes Diesel and are considering purchasing one of Mercedessource kits then this guide should help you decide which kit would be best for you. You will be pleased to know you have the distinct advantage of having the option for a single tank conversion. Yes that is correct! Mercedes Benz has the only diesel engine that can safely and effectively operate on SVO alone. Their rugged engines with pre-chamber combustion and inline mechanical fuel injection pump are well suited to startup and run on vegetable oil alone in warmer weather. In fact, I know of no other automotive diesel engine that can tolerate SVO as well as an older Mercedes!
