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An LP-gas industrial engine was adapted operation on hydrogen or LP-gas so that a comparative analysis of the two fuels could be made. Several alterations were made to the engine to allow operation on hydrogen without backfiring. Performance and cylinder pressures of the engine on the two separate fuels was evaluated under various conditions. The effect on engine performance of water induction for controlling backfiring was also studied. The basic intent of the research program was to evaluate the use of hydrogen for an agricultural engine application.

The primary problems associated with straight soybean oil as a fuel in a compression ignition engine are due to high fuel viscosity. Transesterification provides a significant reduction in viscosity, thereby enhancing the physical properties of the fuel to improve engine performance. Methyl, ethyl, and butyl esters of soybean oil revealed fuel properties similar to diesel fuel. Engine wear, deposits, performance, and emissions are reported for each of the ester fuel's and reference diesel fuel's 200-hour engine tests. Analysis of lubricating oil samples are also presented as well as complete fuel injection system test results.