Fuel Education, Ethanol, Gasoline Operated Engine, Damage, & Repair

J &J Small Engine Clinic, Inc. Is Committed to trying to keep you up to date on the latest Fuel Related Information.

Ethanol Gasoline has been a big problem for Everyone who has a need for any gasoline operated engine. We have seen severe damage and repairs due to gasoline since the inception of Ethanol.

Here are some great articles discussing the challenges and problems we have seen with Ethanol.

Problem 1: Debris In Fuel

Ethanol is a powerful solvent and when first introduced it strips away any gums, varnish, or other build up found in fuel tanks and fuel delivery systems. This debris drops into the fuel and leads to clogged filters, injectors and carburetors.

Problem 2: Excessive Water In The Fuel And Phase Separation

Ethanol attracts moisture from the atmosphere, chemically bonding with it to form an ethanol/water molecule. Water in the fuel causes engines to run rough, stall and can lead to internal damage to engine components. Fuel will naturally hold .5% water in suspension, but if water levels exceed this threshold the water drops out of suspension. The water/ethanol molecules are heavier than the fuel and drop to the bottom of the tank. This is phase separation. Ethanol provides a significant amount of the fuel’s octane, so when the ethanol separates and drops to the bottom of the tank, the remaining fuel is left without enough octane to properly operate the engine. Plus, the ethanol/water mixture is only partially combustible which can lead to severe engine problems.

Problem 3: ETHANOL Fuels Break Down Quickly

Ethanol and gasoline do not chemically bond, instead they are held together in a weak suspension. Over a short period of time the E10 fuel begins to break down. The fuel begins forming solids which can clog the fuel delivery system and reduce octane ratings.

Problem 4: ETHANOL Causes Lost Power Performance And Decreased Fuel Economy.

Ethanol does not produce as much energy as gasoline, losing up to 20+% of its power. E10 fuels result in decreased performance, reduced throttle response and greatly reduced fuel economy. Unburnt fuel leads to carbon deposits.