In this study the of use of ethanol-diesel fuel blends to performance of a single cylinder, direct injection diesel engine for different injection timings has been investigated. The fuel blends were prepared for the ethanol content of 5%, 10% and 20% by volume. An adjustable cam mechanism was adapted to the test engine for changing the injection timing. Besides the fuel injection pump regulator was not employed during the engine tests. At the result of the experimental studies the maximum engine power was obtained for 10% ethanol-diesel fuel blends in 3000 rpm and injection advance of 45 degrees crank angle (CA). The maximum engine torque was obtained for 10% ethanol-diesel fuel blends in 1400 rpm and injection advance of 25 degrees CA. The minimum brake specific fuel consumption (BSFC) was obtained for 20% ethanol-diesel fuel blends in 1200 rpm and injection advance of 35 degrees CA. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.