More Fuel Issues

By Robert Snowden

In last month’s View, I spent time sharing a few simple common sense ways to increase your gas mileage. This month, we'll look at another fuel issue that many collectible car owners have been asking about. My main point will be to address the issue of what owners of old Chevrolets should do when and if only "blended fuels" are available in their area?

In just the past week I have received inquires from Chevy owners asking about "blended fuels" (Ethanol and non-leaded regular gasoline). According to the American Coalition for Ethanol, nearly 46% of today's fuel contains Ethanol; the majority of this fuel is available only in the Midwest. However, over the past year distribution of these "blended fuels" has expanded.

The production of Ethanol and its pros and cons has become a political issue over the past few months. The majority of these blended fuels are what is referred to as E10 (10% Ethanol and 90% unleaded gas). An E85 version with 85% Ethanol and 15% unleaded gas is available now in limited locations for use in Flex Fuel vehicles only.

The proponents of Ethanol stress cleaner burning fuel, with less CO2 emissions, while others are quick to point out that in reality the greenhouse gases produced in the cultivation and production of Ethanol outweigh emissions from your car. Ethanol also boosts the octane rating by 2 or 3 points, which gives you extra power. The downside is the fact that mileage is less with the "blended fuels" than with regular gas. These "blended fuels" are cheaper than regular gas, but only in the Midwest where Ethanol production is highest. Go East, West, or South and you will find that "blended fuels" are more expensive than regular unleaded gas.

So, can you burn E10 in your old Chevy? The answer is yes and no, here are a few factors that come into play:
a. Ethanol tends to sour quicker than regular gas - it goes bad.
b. The use of Ethanol tends to shorten the life expectancy of your fuel filter.
c. Some mechanics have stated that "carbureted cars are really not going to like Ethanol."
d. It's widely felt that Ethanol tends to attract moisture and in some cases could cause damage to the carburetors and other components if left in the tank during storage.
e. Here at Eckler's we have noted an increase in calls stating that sending unit gasket leaks are on the rise, which would seem to confirm that Ethanol tends to cause rubber to deteriorate.
f. Some feel that the true effect of Ethanol on older engines will not be seen for several months or years.

  If you are lucky enough to live in an area where regular unleaded fuels are available, then burn it. If, however, you live where only "blended fuel" is offered, just be aware that using E10 Ethanol in your old Chevy appears to be a minimal concern and something to keep your eyes on!