infidel

Lary is right, modern ATF is up to 80% nonpetroleum additives, most of which don't burn and leave damaging ash deposits in your engine.

Got to watch out for those old-timers, except me

Lary Ellis (Top)

Smart Old Timers never quit learning like US

ZPOD

So is there no safe alternative to the normal Diesel at the pump?
and did you notice the black film on the fuel canister I pulled out of the tank, is there a safe additive to remove that film and prevent or clean carbon buildup in the pistons and valves?

infidel

The black you see on the filter is called asphaltines and is present in all diesel fuel. Fighting it is a losing proposition.

People have put on hundreds of thousands of miles running a percentage of waste motor oil and new or used veggie oil.
This is especially true with the 12 valves that would probably run without problem on coal dust.
There are precautions a person should take before dumping non-diesel in their tank, they should study it more than just finding the right funnel.

There are several message boards similar to this one who's entire focus is alternative fuels. Lots of real life experiences to to garner though before making the jump.