Using Jet A in a diesel?

[Inter20sailor]

A friend of mine offered 5 gallons of Jet A for use on the boat. (Universal MX25).

I know that Jet A is basically #2 diesel, highly refined and filtered. Is there any harm in running Jet A? Does it need to be stabilized, or have additives mixed in?

Thanks!

 

[jrowan]

I would make sure that it is not more than 40 octane rated, or it could damage the fuel injector pump or piston rings, etc. I wasn't aware that diesel was used for jet engines, but aviation type fuel is usually much higher quality & octane rating than standard fuel. (I'm assuming that Jet A is short for jet -aviation fuel?)

 

[shipwreck66]

No! Absolutely not, don't do it.

 

[Inter20sailor]

There is no octane rating that I am aware of for Jet A 'A' is the rating. There is Jet A, Jet A1, JetB (for cold weather) and JP8.

Essentially Jet A is kerosene based, and is much 'cleaner' diesel. (so I am told)

Thank you all for the information.... good information here, as always.

 

[dparilla]

In a pinch it would work, but it is too refined and burns very hot compared to diesel. I think there is a difference in lubricity too.

 

[Anonymous 121765]

Jet fuel and diesel fuel both share similarities in composition as well as many chemical properties. With price fluctuations causing fuel costs to vary wildly by type, many are led to ponder alternative ways to power their diesel and jet engines.

1. Composition
   
   • Jet fuel of types A and A-1 is composed of mostly kerosene, and Jet B is a naptha-kerosene mix. Diesel gas is approx. 75 percent kerosene, with added lubricants and a low-sulfur content.
     
     
   Weight
   
   • Diesel gas is heavier than jet fuel, with a higher number of slightly larger hydrocarbon chains, though both are primarily paraffin oils (kerosene). Diesel is more viscous than jet fuels.
     
     
   Additives - Jet
   
   • Jet fuel often has antifreeze and anti-microbial agents, static dissipaters and corrosion inhibitors added to improve performance in aeronautical engines, whose ambient temperature often varies wildly during flight.
     
     
   Additives - Diesel
   
   • Diesel has lubricant additives to promote healthy engine function--using kerosene or Jet-A fuels in a diesel engine may cause damage due to its lower levels of lubricants. Diesel also contains a dye added to prove it has been taxed.
     
     
   Heat Output
   
   • According to Inspectapedia.com, diesel has a higher BTU output and more energy per unit than does Jet-A fuel.
     
     
   Engine Use - Conclusions
   
   • While many attest to using 50-50 ratios of jet/diesel in diesel engines, this will cause the engine to run hotter and have a lower mpg rating. It will also void many warranties by the manufacturer. Jet-A is more similar to Diesel #1, which is lighter than Diesel #2 (automotive diesel), and so is not a perfect substitute, but in emergency situations is a potential fuel source. Jet-A usage will not cause instant physical damage but long-term wear will increase due to lack of lubrication, different burn temperatures and energy output
     
     

I20,

Here's a link that may has info you are looking for pal.
CR

What is the Difference Between Jet Fuel & Diesel Fuel? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/facts_5808896_difference-jet-fuel-diesel-fuel_.html#ixzz1XMTbOriA

 

[Inter20sailor]

Excellent info CR! You saved me from the post! I was trolling the net and came across the same information.

Thank you!

 

[DanM]

Might work just fine and save you $20.00

Then again, might destroy your engine and cost you $7000.00

I wouldn't touch it personally, but might be a fun experiment in someone else's engine.

DanM.

 

[wetass]

If you have a diesel furnace for your home, you might want to use it there. Dont risk your boat engine, even if the risk is slight.

 

[Lee Coller]

Untaxed diesel is dyed

Diesel has lubricant additives to promote healthy engine function--using kerosene or Jet-A fuels in a diesel engine may cause damage due to its lower levels of lubricants. Diesel also contains a dye added to prove it has been taxed.

Minor correction: untaxed diesel is dyed.

 

[foolproof]

I work at an airport, so I have access to Jet A. We run it in our refueler with no problem. I have heard that is not as "oily" as regular diesel, but our engine is designed to run on either. The problem with running it in a boat is the lack of lubrication, which would tend to wear out the injectors faster. They need to have the lubrication of regular diesel. There is a product available in auto stores that supposedly is an additive to correct the dry condition. I may try JetA because it is so much more stable than regular diesel, and is not as prone to biocide contamination as diesel is. Wouldn't have to worry about it settling and making the tank and lines all icky over the off season.

 

[txtowman]

Add 1 ounce of 2 cycle non synthetic oil per gallon or mix at a 50/50 ratio with #2 diesel.

I run alternative fuels routinely in my dodge diesel pickup(all mechanical), and have no problems.

the jet a will store for several years without issue.

YMMV