Ethanol vs Non Ethanol fuel | FerrariChat

Ethanol vs Non Ethanol fuel

Discussion in '456/550/575' started by Renman57, Mar 23, 2014.

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  1. Renman57

    Renman57 Formula Junior

    Feb 26, 2014
    428
    North Carolina
    Full Name:
    Reynolds
    I am the new owner of a 2000 550 w/ 11,200 miles. Has anyone had problems using ethanol gas in their 550? I understand there are some rubber parts within the fuel pump and fuel system. I was considering putting non ethanol gas in my car since ethanol over time will destroy rubber. Since the non ethanol gas I can buy has an octane rating go 89 I was also considering using an octane booster. Thoughts?
     
  2. Mr. V

    Mr. V Formula 3

    Oct 23, 2004
    1,247
    Portland, Oregon
    I replaced the deteriorated rubber in the fuel system of my 456 GT, which crumbled over time.

    I've read that ethamol hastens its demise.

    So, now I fill up with non-ethanol gasoline whenever it is available, and it is usually available.

    See ... Ethanol-free gas stations in the U.S. and Canada
     
  3. Konadog06

    Konadog06 Formula Junior

    Aug 22, 2007
    963
    Daytona Beach, Florida
    Full Name:
    Bill
    Reynolds my 2 cents. With a 575 I only use non ethanol fuels mixing marine grade 89/90 evenly with 98 unleaded race fuels found at nearby tracks. From what we've read 550's are more exposed with their fuel system.
    If you drive your car on a regular basis you may be able to get away with ethanol fuels. Thinking here is, if that fuel keeps moving through the system it won't cause as much trouble. Most deterioration happens when this fuel sits. If its a weekend driver sitting from time to time I wouldn't do it. Not a fan of octane boosters myself. Would be more inclined to look at ethanol neutralizer additives first as a last resort before adding boosters to lower grade fuels.
    Would suggest link mentioned above and checking local race tracks and some speed shops for higher octane fuels should you still desire.
    Bill
    FL
     
  4. Renman57

    Renman57 Formula Junior

    Feb 26, 2014
    428
    North Carolina
    Full Name:
    Reynolds
    Thanks for the info - checked the non ethanol gas link and found out there is a pump with 93 octane non ethanol gas in my own town. Great website and future resource when traveling with the Maranello too!
     

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