To utilize ethanol from agricultural residue as a fuel in diesel engines, a dual-fuel engine was developed. The engine, which was equipped with a system to electrically control diesel and alcohol flow rates, met basic requirements of a tractor engine, including engine speed control and setting of the torque curve. However, engine knock due to alcohol was a significant drawback. A diesel injection pump with a timing and flow rate control system was adapted and the effect of injection timing on combustion and performance was investigated. It was observed that the timing control was effective in reducing Engine knock caused by rapid alcohol combustion. (C) 1996 Elsevier Science Ltd.