Hello and Welcome to the Biodiesel and SVO section of this site.  After doing some extensive research (and a very poor effort to possibly attempt to get some non profit funding to build a Cruiser that runs on SVO), I have come up with this section all about the concepts of biodiesel and SVO.

Basic Overview:
There are two basic ways to run either biodiesel derived from Vegetable Oil (easiest and cheapest (free) found from waste of deep fryers).  The first, making biodiesel, involves a chemical process of removing various particles and contaminents from the fuel that the diesel engine cannot burn unless the fuel is heated to 180d F.  The other is heating the vegetable oil to 180d F, but as you can speculate, requires significant filtering.  Both have drawbacks.  But the most notable advantages are, 1) typicially both are "better for your engine" in that they have much better lubrication properties than straight petroleum diesels, 2) are signifcantly better for the environment in that they produce significantly less amounts of greenhouse gas and smog, and 3) If you can find a good source, are free.  It's basically like running your engine on garbage..!  - Because that is what most WVO (waste vegetable oil) is.

Here are a couple good links to learn all about Biodiesel and SVO Conversions:
1. The Biodiesel and SVO Discussion Board
I don't know a whole lot about it other than what I've learned here.  Lurk and ask questions, as you can imagine these are all generally very nice people.

2. How to make biodiesel
3. Here is a graphic image of a SVO conversion.
Image taken from the UK's Goat Industries Web Site.

Some Good Sites:
All About using bio-diesel in your engine
Using Straight Vegetable Oil as Diesel Fuel
Mercedez Conversion Site
The Veggie Van
Grease Monkey Conversions
Grease Car

Grease Car Database
Register your SVO conversion vehicle for improved
learning for all SVO/WVO conversions.

Here are a couple of other perhaps informatiive links: (Courtesy of Steve Fox)
General Biodiesel Infomation
A study on the lubricity of biodiesel with positive results
A survey of experience in biodiesel research

Information on Lubrication and Rotary Pumps (specifically Bosch Pumps)