Katerina Swanson
Ethanol is a popular fuel option, especially with the rise of high-horsepower turbo supercharged blown EFI engines. However, it has received a lot of attention due to its effects on older fuel systems. Ethanol can be corrosive and may damage fuel system components, including the fuel line, that would otherwise be unaffected by gasoline. It is important to note that the compatibility of an ethanol fuel line with gasoline depends on various factors, such as the age of the vehicle, the type of fuel line material, and the concentration of ethanol in the blend.
Can Ethanol Fuel Line Support Gasoline?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ethanol eating rubber | Ethanol does not eat rubber. |
| Fuel line durability | Ethanol can be corrosive and may damage fuel system components. |
| Fuel line material | Nylon, PTFE, neoprene, and rubber are some materials used for fuel lines. |
| Fuel type | E85 contains up to 85% ethanol, while E10 has a maximum of 10% ethanol content. |
| Vehicle compatibility | Older vehicles, particularly those manufactured before 1994, may not be compatible with ethanol fuel. |
| Fuel system components | Ethanol-based fuel may harm fuel lines, fuel pumps, and other components that are not ethanol-resistant. |
| Aromatics in fuel | Changes in the amount of aromatics in fuel may be a factor in fuel line deterioration, with elements like benzene and toluene being dangerous additives. |
| Cost | E85 or Ethanol fuel is cost-effective. |
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What You'll Learn
- Ethanol-based fuel can be corrosive and may damage fuel system components
- Ethanol doesn't eat rubber, but it can dry out simple neoprene rubber fuel lines
- E85 contains up to 85% ethanol and the rest is gasoline
- Ethanol-free fuel is an alternative option to prevent fuel line issues
- Ethanol-resistant fuel lines are available in the market
Ethanol-based fuel can be corrosive and may damage fuel system components
Ethanol-blended gasoline is a popular choice of fuel, especially with the rise of high-horsepower turbo supercharged blown EFI engines. It is cost-effective and can improve the octane rating of gasoline. However, it is essential to understand that ethanol-based fuel can be corrosive and may damage fuel system components.
Ethanol is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. This can lead to water accumulation in the fuel tank, causing corrosion and fuel degradation. The oxidation of ethanol also creates corrosive byproducts that can damage engine components over time. Additionally, ethanol has a lower energy content than gasoline, requiring additional fuel additives to maintain performance.
The corrosive effects of ethanol can impact sensitive engine parts like valves, pistons, and seals. It is also associated with microbial contamination, as studies have found that acetobacter bacteria produce acetic acid in the fuel system. This acetic acid is highly corrosive and can cause serious engine damage when used regularly. Therefore, regular maintenance checks are crucial to ensure that ethanol fuel is not damaging your engine or its components.
To mitigate the corrosive effects of ethanol-blended fuel, you can use a fuel stabilizer like Biobor EB, which protects against water accumulation and guards against corrosion. It is also important to monitor your tank levels and store ethanol-blended fuel in sealed containers to prevent water buildup.
It is worth noting that if you have a 1994 or newer vehicle, your fuel system is likely designed to be ethanol-resistant. However, if you have an older vehicle or aftermarket fuel system components, it is essential to check their compatibility with ethanol fuel.
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Ethanol doesn't eat rubber, but it can dry out simple neoprene rubber fuel lines
It is a common misconception that ethanol is the cause of fuel tank contamination issues. In reality, ethanol in fuel does not eat rubber. However, it is essential to note that ethanol can dry out simple neoprene rubber fuel lines, especially in high concentrations like E85. This drying out can occur from the inside out and lead to serious fire hazards. Therefore, it is recommended to use a fuel line made of materials other than rubber, such as braided steel or chlorinated polyethylene (CPE).
Ethanol is now commonly blended with gasoline to improve the octane rating. As a result, almost all gasolines contain 10% ethanol. This reformulated gasoline has led to concerns about its effects on older fuel systems, particularly those with rubber fuel lines. In response, some aftermarket solutions, such as braided steel AN hoses with CPE-based materials, have been introduced to address rubber fuel line degradation.
While ethanol does not directly eat away at rubber, it can accelerate the deterioration of fuel lines over time. This process can cause leaks and potentially lead to dangerous situations. It is worth noting that the combination of a fuel tank vent and rubber fuel lines can also result in a gasoline smell without any visible leaks.
To address concerns about ethanol's impact on fuel lines, some companies offer PTFE-style performance hoses with special fittings. These hoses are more expensive than neoprene or CPE-enhanced rubber hoses but provide better resistance to ethanol. Additionally, marine fuel lines are generally compatible with ethanol but tend to be more costly.
It is important to note that vehicles manufactured before 1994 may have fuel systems that are not resistant to ethanol. In such cases, installing an ethanol capability kit may be necessary to ensure compatibility with E85 or other ethanol-blended fuels. However, for 1994 and newer vehicles, there is usually no need to worry about ethanol damaging the fuel system.
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E85 contains up to 85% ethanol and the rest is gasoline
E85 is a fuel blend that contains up to 85% ethanol, with the remaining 15% consisting of gasoline or other hydrocarbons. The ratio of ethanol to gasoline in E85 can vary, and in the United States, the allowable ethanol content in E85 ranges from 51% to 83%. This variation is due to the lower heating value of neat ethanol, which can make it challenging to start engines in cold climates. To address this issue, ethanol fuel is often blended with a fraction of gasoline.
E85 is widely used in flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs), which are designed to run on any mixture of gasoline or ethanol up to 85% ethanol. These vehicles have fuel systems that are resistant to ethanol and can include stainless steel fuel lines, sometimes lined with plastic. E85 is a cost-effective and high-performance fuel option, offering higher octane ratings than regular or premium gasoline.
While E85 has gained popularity, concerns have been raised about its compatibility with fuel lines. Some sources suggest that high concentrations of ethanol in E85 can dry out and damage certain types of rubber fuel lines, leading to potential fire hazards. However, other sources refute this claim, stating that ethanol does not eat rubber and that only older vehicles with fuel systems built before 1994 may be at risk.
To ensure compatibility, it is recommended to use fuel lines specifically designed for E85, such as those made from premium black nylon or Fragola PTFE hose with an outer braid and an inner liner to resist chemical breakdown. Additionally, special fuel filters and compatible fuel pumps are necessary when using E85.
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Ethanol-free fuel is an alternative option to prevent fuel line issues
Ethanol-blended gasoline has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially with the rise of high-horsepower turbo supercharged blown EFI engines. However, ethanol can cause issues with fuel systems, including fuel lines, fuel pumps, and other components that are not designed to be ethanol-resistant. While it is true that ethanol can dry out and damage simple rubber fuel lines, the real culprit behind fuel line issues may be the changes in the amount of aromatics in the fuel.
Ethanol-free fuel, such as TruFuel®, is an alternative option for those looking to prevent fuel line issues. It is designed specifically for small engines, such as those found in chainsaws, string trimmers, and leaf blowers, which are at risk of ethanol damage. These small engines cannot handle the gum, varnish, and ethanol that can build up and cause issues. Ethanol also attracts water, which can lead to corrosion and damage to rubber and plastic parts inside the engine.
By using ethanol-free fuel, you can protect your equipment from phase separation, corrosion, and gummed-up fuel lines. It stays fresh for years and provides optimal performance for your 2-cycle equipment. Additionally, ethanol-free fuel is a good option for older vehicles with fuel systems that are not resistant to ethanol. These vehicles, especially those manufactured before 1994, may have issues with ethanol-based fuel breaking down components that are not ethanol-resistant.
While ethanol-free fuel is a more expensive option, it can save you from costly repairs in the long run by preventing issues associated with ethanol. It is important to note that most newer vehicles and aftermarket fuel system components are likely to be ethanol-resistant, but it is always better to check and ensure compatibility to avoid any potential problems.
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Ethanol-resistant fuel lines are available in the market
The use of ethanol and methanol fuels has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially with the rise of high-horsepower turbo supercharged blown EFI engines. E85 or Ethanol is a cost-effective fuel that can provide a higher octane rating. However, it can be corrosive and may damage fuel system components.
If you own a vehicle manufactured in 1994 or later, you don't have to worry about ethanol damaging your fuel system. Most OPE (outdoor power equipment) manufactured in the last 30 years will have fuel lines that can handle ethanol. However, ethanol can reduce the lifespan of your fuel lines, and you should ensure that any aftermarket components are ethanol-resistant.
There are several options for ethanol-resistant fuel lines available on the market. Some of the best materials for fuel lines that are ethanol-resistant include:
- Copper-nickel tubing: This material is commonly used for brake lines and is known for its flexibility and resistance to cracking.
- Cloth-covered neoprene: This option is more expensive but is suitable for vintage cars and can be found at motorcycle suppliers.
- Polyurethane: This material is said to be ethanol-resistant and is available in various colours.
- Fragola Premium Black Nylon Race Hose: This hose is designed to withstand both ethanol and methanol. It has a rubber inner hose reinforced with stainless steel and a black nylon braid exterior for added durability.
- Fragola PTFE Hose: This hose is highly resistant to chemicals and heat and is available with a stainless steel outer braid or a black coating.
You can find ethanol-resistant fuel lines on websites like Amazon, Motion Raceworks, and from companies like Fragola and Gates. It is important to choose a quality fuel line to ensure the longevity of your vehicle's fuel system.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, ethanol fuel lines can support gasoline. However, it is important to ensure that the fuel line is made of a compatible material, such as nylon or PTFE, as ethanol can be corrosive and may damage certain fuel system components.
Ethanol can be corrosive and create a gel-like substance, which may damage fuel system components. It is important to use special fuel filters and ensure that your fuel pump is compatible with ethanol.
Yes, one alternative is to use ethanol-free fuel. Additionally, some fuel lines are specifically designed for use with gasoline, such as the Fragola Premium Black Nylon Race Hose, which is compatible with both ethanol and methanol fuel.
Ethanol is a cost-effective fuel that can improve the octane rating of gasoline. It is also a popular choice for high-horsepower turbo supercharged blown EFI engines.
