Been running my Xantia 1.9TD on different ratios of WVO, WHO and diesel. It's been running now for 2 years and within I covered about 40kkm. Only mods that I've done is coolant heat exchanger and heated fuel filter (from a Golf MK1
). I change my engine oil every 10kkm and so far I didn't notice any polymerization... In the last few days, I studied the possibility of WVO in common rail engines. Xantias will not last forever and at some point other car will have to be thought of ...
I came across a PhD on this subject (PDF, 423 pages):
https://www.google.si/url?sa=t&rct=j&q= ... QMqG5iYPP3
Of course, I have not (yet) read the whole document, just abstract and a conclusions.
Interestingly, in fact, the common rail system, through all the sensors it has, allows many things that can be tweaked. It is necessary to change the MAP (and probably to replace the injectors). At least that's what's written in PhD. Well, the biggest problem with WVO is dirt, viscosity, water and PH (to acidic). But with proper treatment WVO can be made to meet the standards for common rail use.
The design is done in cooperation with Elsbett (it's now called Grease Energy), who is also a supplier of injectors and already has changed MAPs for common rail systems.
For example:
https://www.greasenergy-shop.com/epages ... rrency=EUR
Even though, the price is high, in principle it will cover the expense within a year or so.
Now another thing. For heating the entire system, webasto system could be used (park heating, stand heating...). Probably would not be working with WVO... The flame is supposed to be larger than that of a diesel, so it strikes the wall and reflects back, so there is no clean combustion and then it is drowned with soot. But should be able to burn heating oil which is half cheaper, but a third tank would be needed...
So the biggest problem (from what I know) is cold start on WVO. Maybe with additional heating using electricity from the battery (put some batteries in the trunk used only for heating and then charged with engine alternator) and using a park heater you could heat the fuel, fuel lines, pump, injectors to a temperature that would enable even a cold start with WVO. But then again I believe it would take at least 15min to get to operational temperature... A timer could be used to warm the engine before you go to work and off-work and even a thermostat to keep constant temperature when you are on visit for a couple of hours.
Opinions/suggestions/experiences are very welcome!
