[Vwdiesel] biodiesel requiring a rebuilt injection pump on an '84 Rabbit - SUMMARY

[Bryan K. Walton]

I'd like to thank everybody that responded to my questions regarding
biodiesel (in high % blends) damaging my injection pump and then my
engine.  I raised this question not only on this list, but also on a
few discussion boards.  I received a load of useful and helpful
information that I've tried to summarize below (in case anybody else
is interested):

1. It would be wise to consider having my pump resealed.  The pump
shouldn't need to be rebuilt, but just resealed with viton seals.

3. If I have original seals, I might very well develop leaks in
the injection pump, which could get the timing belt covered in the
fuel, which would damage it and then cause it to break. But, very
important to note, this wouldn't be immediate.  If I check for leaks
of diesel on the floor, I should be able to catch it.

4. If you pay attention, then a fuel leak will not go undetected.

5. If you are going to run higher concentrations of biodiesel, then it
would be prudent to budget for getting the injection pump resealed.

According to the journeytoforever.org site:
"Any vehicle made from the early 1980s on is unlikely to have
problems, even using 100% biodiesel. Some 1980s Volkswagen models
eventually suffer return-line leaks, but you'll have plenty of warning
and it's easy to replace the damaged part. As for injector pump seals,
we've yet to hear of it actually happening with any clear proof that
biodiesel was the culprit."

I'm feeling better about the whole situation now.  Essentially, I'll
ensure that the area around my IP is clean, and then check it fairly
regularly to see if it is leaking.  I just changed my timing belt in
January, so at least I know that TB is starting out in good shape.
It is good to know that if I pay close attention to my car, which I
do, I'll have ample time to fix this problem if it were to surface.
And finally, it is nice to know that I would only need to get my IP
resealed, not completely rebuilt. :-)

Thanks everybody.
Bryan