Red dye in bio diesel

[Piers]

Just heard a potentially concerning story from a boating friend of mine here in Beaucette. He's a marine mechanic, he's been boating for over 50 years and over most of the world's oceans.

Some time after having filled with red bio-diesel, he began to get clogged filters. Clogged with long worm-like strands of dark 'mess'. having it analysed, it turned out it was not dieselbug but the result of the chemical reaction the red dye has with the 'bio' part of the diesel. This apparently has the ability to dissolve sikoflex as well as the rubber used in gaskets. Not only did he have to clean the tanks and lines, but replace the gaskets and sealant with types not subject to this chemical reaction.

Not wanting the risk of this recurring, he now only buys white diesel.

Anyone know anything about this issue with red bio-diesel?

 

[longjohnsilver]

Where did he buy his bio diesel?

 

[Piers]

Correction - it wasn't Guernsey.

I've also just checked and Rubis (the suppliers I use) don't sell bio-diesel. Phew - I can now fill up happily.

But, that doesn't resolve the issue I posted above. Grateful for any comment.

 

[Stork_III]

Doubt the dye has anything to do with it. The Bio (FAME) does attach rubber seals etc. Only buy diesel with no FAME content. Newer engines have seals etc compatible with FAME.

 

[rafiki_]

non bio for us coastal boaters, but inland water diesel must include min 5% bio.