DrJan All of this is above my pay grade. It is a bit like which "weight" of motor oil should I use? Everybody has an opinion. I any event I have learned some new things about bacteria (acetobacter) in the water creating an acid that causes the metallic corrosion. I am a little surprised about the bacteria issue because the water vapor condenses (distilled) in the storage tank. I thought distilled (condensed) water was mineral and bacteria free. Apparently, the bacteria contamination comes from some other source in the tank or plumbing, and the water merely provides the environment for the bacterial growth. Regarding storage tanks, I also think a lot of people store their cars and motorcycles for longer than a week at a time especially in the northern US, a vehicle gas tank is merely comparable by size not purpose. The more cars you have or store, the less likely they will get used regularly, unless you take the time specifically for that purpose. Somewhere, I think the Kathon information mentioned use in vehicle gas tanks, not sure. I don know much about Kathon, either. I just read about it on the internet today. Again ethanol is hygroscopic and attracts water, which aggravates the storage issues of phase separation. Thanks for taking the time to read this. Just my small thoughts and mindless opinions. deeprivergarage Jerry
I think Ethanol is a problem for most pre 2003 (though could be 2006 for some) cars. My mechanic says its really bad and I trust his opinion. Talking philosophically, perhaps I am just really over simplifying but I think if we wanted to give farmers a subsidy maybe we shouldn't burn our food in the process. They could give the corn to people who are hungry and they could give us ethanol free fuel. That would be nice.
+1 You are so right! Totally a political motivation, certainly not environmental. Who ever dreamed up using food for fuel was misguided, hypocritical, and delusional. It is so wrong for so many obvious reasons. Jerry
Deeprivergarage, I have learned a lot too! When I lived in Sweden I followed my mecanics advice, to put away a vehicle with a full tank of fresh petrol with added Ethanol. Never had any problems even if a vehicle was stored for 9 months plus. I am sure petrol (with or without Alcohol) ages differently in different climates. Here I try to use them. As long as we are happy doing what we believe in!
I think we all agree on that Ethanol should be consumed and not put in the petrol? Preferably in the refined form called Absolut Elyx? ( but that is a question for the Food & Drink sub forum!)
Well, I have about 40Km, in my '85 Mondial (euro, what I grew up calling gray market.) The car is already running smoother, and more quietly, less mechanical clatter. I've only had it for about a month. The PO was conscientious, from the service records and $ amounts on the records. Before that I was running Top Tier Fuel, and Stabil 360 (1oz. per five gallons). At least for me and mine, going "dry" seems like the way to go.
