WVO Conversion in the Cariboo

[docsavage]

In case you missed the thread in the Delica Meet 2007 section, we are converting Josh's van to two tank WVO system on the weekend of July 7, 2007 in the vicinity of Williams Lake. Any one interested can also check out :

viewtopic.php?f=14&t=753

Josh can provide details of his system.

James

[josh]

Well I'll start out vague...

I am getting a plantdrive system. Um, it hasn't arrived yet so I haven't figured out much more than that. I have however been assured it will arrive in time for the install. So thats good news. Now I just have to struggle through the laying it out process and getting all the extra little things. I am feeling a bit overwhelmed right now... but I am sure I'll feel great when its all over. I'll keep you posted.

Josh

[Adrock]

josh what are you planning on using to filter/store your oil... have you figured that into your costs at all?

[josh]

Adam,

Yeah I have been looking at multiple ideas. So far I am just going to use bag filers and 55 gallon drums to settle the WVO in. Eventually I am going to make something portable. But for now simplicity (cheap) and time (free) are what i am going to go for. I have the drums already... so in all it isn't going to be over the top pricey. I am also over my panic that I had today when I felt in over my head. I think this is going to come together splendidly.

Josh

[josh]

I just got an email, someone wants me to feature the Delica with the WVO system at the fair in the fall... I dont even know how they found out about me doing the conversion! Small towns, gotta love them. But its cool, it seems like people are real keen on the idea up here.

Josh

[Adam]

Hey Josh,

What pieces did you end up buying from PlantDrive? I'm going to put in my order next week and see what I can end up piecing together myself to save some cash, before running to Bjorn to help out. The whole reason I bought my Deli was to run on WVO, I can't let a little thing like a $3,000 price tag scare me off. Well I guess I can, which is why I'll be looking for your extensive photo documentation of the install process after the meet.

[josh]

I ordered the TTVTM with VegMax Filter with two 3-port solenoids ($625) and a hotfox ($199). I still have to get the fuel line and a few other thingy majiggs... I am still waiting on more about the tank, so thats getting near the wire. I have had my moments of panic at the whole process (in fact I even sent Kev a "freak out" email once) but it seems like it is coming together and I am getting really excited and feeling as though I am already getting a better handle on things.

Josh

[Adam]

I ordered the TTVTM with VegMax Filter with two 3-port solenoids ($625) and a hotfox ($199).

Did you go with the two 3-port solenoids instead of the single 6-port solenoid to avoid cross contamination issues and/or did you do it because you wanted to add a NADA or VO controller to automatically switch over to WVO? I'm considering a controller but I don't want to spend more money than I need to. I want to have a fairly no-brainier system for switching over to WVO, but maybe that can be done buy adding a temp gauge to the WVO fuel line? A buddy of mine said that the WVO Deli he's ridden in would get manually switched over as soon as the driver noticed the engine temp gauge moved slightly. I think I might want a little more assurance of proper VO temps before switching my engine over.

I was also looking at ordering 3/8 inch 3B Hose from Golden fuels. It is a bundle of coolant supply, coolant return and fuel hose wrapped in a rubber sheath. I just found out the cost was $10USD/foot so I might skip it. I really have no idea how much coolant and fuel lines cost so if it is not a huge uplift I guess I'll end up getting it.

P.S. Ray Holan (author of 'Sliding Home') makes a good case for adding an auxiliary 4-6 psi Facet Posi-flo fuel pump right after the WVO fuel tank to help push the thick oil through the fuel lines. The part only costs $30 or so and should be a big help in colder climates. It's NAPA Part No. 610-1050 and should look like the pump on the far right of this picture:

P.P.S. After further research and cost cutting measures I think I'll scrap the HotFox in-tank heater and either the NADA or VO Controllers. According to the PlantDrive website I won't need in-tank heating unless I'm in temps below -15C, which isn't a big issue in Nanaimo. It looks like a cheap controller alternative is to rig a SVSW60C Early Switchover Preventer (~60C/140F). This allows you to flip the WVO switch as soon as you start your rig and the SVSW60C will prevent you system from switching over to WVO or turning on the Vegtherm (if desired) until the coolant temperature reaches ~ 60C/140F.