Re: EFI & Ethanol
From: Jeff Greenfield (coyoteacme-ltd.com)
Date: Sat, 27 Sep 2008 15:14:29 -0700 (PDT)
   Larry -



   Without going into all the things that are wrong with Ethanol (from an
   environmental and econmical view) I am aware of some problems in
   marine use, which may very well carry over to small engines.



   There are several problems that Ethanol presents in marine use. Older
   inboard boats had fiberglass gas tanks which the Ethanol dissolves
   over time creating all sorts of problems.



   It wil also eat the hoses and seals in older stuff. Not a problem with
   the newer stuff as the hoses and other seals, o rings, etc are
   compatable with the Ethanol.



   In older boats (as in antique  and classic boats from the 20's through
   the 50's) the fuel systems are vented to the atmosphere (not sure if
   this is the case with newer boats, I would think not). So, you have a
   vent line running from the top of the tank to a through-hull fitting
   just above the waterline. Ethanol absorbs moisture, so, can you see a
   problem here?



   Yup, the fuel absorbs moisture from the surrounding atmosphere.



   There are additives available that counteract this which seem to work.
   At least I haven't had any problems with my boat (a 1948 Chris Craft)
   in the last 2-3 years since I've been using one of these additives.



   Google E-Zorb and Startron which are two such additives.



   I suspect that the problems with small engines and outboards are
   similar. Although, I have no idea what effects Ethanol has when added
   to 2 stroke oil.



   Another problem is the so-called reduced shelf life. Supposedly E-10
   gas will start to turn in 90 days or so. Personally I have not had any
   problems with my small equipment and use Stabil when storing anything
   for the winter (usually 4-5 months in these parts of the north east).



   Jeff



     -------- Original Message --------
     Subject: [Ferrari] EFI & Ethanol
     From: "LarryT" <l02turner [at] comcast.net>
     Date: Sat, September 27, 2008 4:04 pm
     To: Jeff Greenfield <COYOTE [at] acme-ltd.com>
     Cc: The FerrariList <ferrari [at] ferrarilist.com>
     Anyone aware of any studies looking into any problems that may be
     caused by using Ethanol in EFI equipped engines?
     Not govt. propaganda - real world info,
     Have been reading some forums - small engines mostly - like
     outboards and lawn mowers who are having problems directly related
     to higher Ethanol content.
     They say part of it is due to the way small engines are used Vs
     larger car engines. Since small engine sit for longer before
     burning their fuel. The ethanol is said to break down, lose octane
     numbers and begine to absorb moisture more quickly. Evidently there
     is a lawsuit of various Outboard Engine Manufacturers Vs the Govt
     who mandated the use of Ethanol. Seems they claim a high amount of
     repairs being caused by Ethanol - especially warranty work which is
     borne by the manufacturers. No one is looking out for the little
     guy constantly having his OB or mower repaired at hios own cost.
     Actually, my Toro had a problem with the needle valve seat which
     failed to seal - the shop that sold me the parts blamed ethanol
     saying they were seeing dozens of them a month lately. Were so
     backed up they could get to me for 2 weeks. Fixed it myself -
     I'm still searching the net for info but would be interested in any
     info. you are aware of --
     Thx -
     Take Care,
     Larry T
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