Transit Bus Operation with a DDC 6V-92TAC Engine Operating on Ignition-Improved Methanol

The use of methanol as a fuel in transit buses is being demonstrated through the use of diesel engine retrofits and an ignition improver to methanol. This project is aimed at retrofitting the Detroit Diesel Corporation (DDC) 6V-92TAC diesel engine in a GM RTSII bus to operate on methanol. The engine is modified by installing higher compression ratio pistons, higher flowrate mechanical fuel injectors, and a different blower. The bus fuel system is also modified to accommodate the properties of methanol. New fuel lines are installed, and the diesel fuel tank is replaced with two stainless steel tanks. A high-pressure electric fuel pump and a fuel cooler are used to prevent methanol from boiling in the engine. Currently, three buses have been retrofitted. The buses operate at the Southern California Rapid Transit District (SCRTD) in Los Angeles, California.