In this paper, parameters affecting castor oil transesterification reaction were investigated. Applying four basic catalysts including NaOCH3, NaOH, KOCH3 and KOH the best one with maximum biodiesel yield was identified. Using Taguchi method consisting four parameters and three levels, the best experimental conditions were determined. Reaction temperature (25, 65 and 80 C), mixing intensity (250, 400 and 600 rpm), alcohol/oil ratio (4:1, 6:1 and 8:1) and catalyst concentration (0.25, 0.35 and 0.5%) were selected as experimental parameters. It was concluded that reaction temperature and mixing intensity can be optimized. Using the optimum results, we proposed a kinetic model which resulted in establishing an equation for the beginning rate of transesterification reaction. Furthermore, applying ASTM D 976 correlation, minimum cetane number of produced biodiesel was determined as 37.1. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.