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I posted this in the Classics section - thought it would also be of interest here. I picked this information up at the local dealer.
As promised: "E-10 Gasoline Concerns"
A large number of us have experienced running problems due to "bad" gasoline in the recent past. This primarily is due to the 10% Ethanol that is in the gasoline mixture as mandated by the Clean Air Act. Please be aware of the following:
Storage: E-10 gasoline cannot be stored for more than 60 or 90 days. If you are planning to leave gas in your tank or Jerry Cans for this period of time, it must be stabilized with a non-alcohol fuel stabilizer. Do not use any additive that contains alcohol! Quick turnover is recommended if it is not stabilized.
Phase Separation: Ethanol attracts water! If there is too much water in your tank (3/4 oz. or more per gallon), the Ethanol will "phase" out of the E-10 mixture. When the Ethanol phases out, the octane level will also decrease rendering the engine very difficult, if not impossible to start. Most motorcycles, power equipment, and boats have "open" fuel systems that vent fumes to the atmosphere. This open vent system also allows a pathway for the fuel to easily absorb the moisture from the air.
Mixability: E-10 does not mix well with old gas. If you have old gas in storage tanks, use it up completely before refilling with E-10 gas. The most common result of mixing the two fuels is clogged fuel filters.
Solvent Characteristics: Ethanol will act as a solvent and will disolve any varnish deposits that have built up in your tank over the years. This will cause plugging of your fuel filters. It will also have the tendency to soften fuel lines so any aging lines should be replaced.
What it means to us: We strongly urge our customers to be mindful of these facts and protect their investment accordingly. The manufacturers have ceased covering carburetor cleanings under warranty and unfortunately, we must follow suit. We would like our customers to understand that it's not a manufacturer's defect. If you experience fuel quality problem we would be happy to help but we must charge the appropriate labor fee to remedy the problem.
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