Sylvie Willis
Running out of fuel is a common problem for cars, and it can be a stressful experience if it happens while on the road. While cars do not have built-in emergency fuel, there are emergency fuel products available on the market, such as Magic Tank, that can be stored in the car or at home and used in any gasoline-powered vehicle. Some people also choose to keep canned fuel or ethanol-free gas with a stabilizer on hand for emergencies, although this can be expensive for regular car use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name of Emergency Fuel | Magic Tank |
| Compatibility | Gasoline-powered vehicles such as cars, vans, motorcycles, RVs, power boats, and generators |
| Safety | Non-flammable, safe to store in vehicles or homes, and approved by the EPA, Department of Transportation, and National Fire Protection Association |
| Price | Pricier than regular fuel |
| Storage | Safe to carry in vehicles and homes |
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What You'll Learn
Magic Tank is an emergency fuel solution that works for cars
Running out of fuel can be a frustrating experience, and it happens more often than you think. According to the makers of Magic Tank, 20% of all cars on the side of the road are out of gas. Magic Tank is an emergency fuel solution that works for cars, motorcycles, RVs, power boats, and generators. It is a safe and legal alternative to packing a jug of gas in your vehicle.
Magic Tank is a liquid derived from gas but does not contain any volatile butanes, pentane, hexanes, or heptanes. It is non-flammable and will not ignite unless exposed to a spark or flame at a minimum temperature of 105ºF (40.5ºC). This makes it safe to store in your vehicle or home. It is also biodegradable and will not harm your engine.
When poured into a car's fuel tank, Magic Tank allows the vehicle to continue traveling as far as it could using an equivalent amount of gasoline. It works by displacing the residual gas that's still in the bottom of the tank, pushing it up so it can be used by the engine. Magic Tank is stable for up to ten years and is a combustible, not flammable, product.
Magic Tank is a convenient solution for those who want to finish a job without having to go out to get fuel. It is also useful for those who want to avoid making a special trip to replenish their fuel cans. Magic Tank is available for purchase online, with prices starting at $29.99 for a half-gallon (2-liter) bottle.
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Canned fuel is an option for emergencies, but it's expensive
Canned fuel is an option for car owners to consider in emergency situations. However, it is a relatively expensive option. For example, the cost of gas is about $4 per gallon, with a stabilizer costing around 20 cents per gallon. This means that canned fuel is significantly more expensive than regular pump gas. Nevertheless, for those who require emergency fuel, the price may be worth it.
There are a variety of gas cans available on the market that can be used to store canned fuel. These cans come in different sizes, ranging from 1-gallon to 14-gallon capacities. Some gas cans are made of plastic, while others are made of metal. It is important to choose a can that is CARB and EPA-certified to ensure the safe storage of flammable liquids. Additionally, features like child-proof spouts and flame mitigation devices can enhance safety.
For those seeking a more affordable option, the VP Racing Fuels Square Racing Utility Jug is a 5-gallon plastic storage container that costs around $43. It is made from high-density polyethylene and comes with a hose and rubber gaskets for spill-free pouring. On the other hand, Rotopax offers a pricier fuel can with a 10-year leak-free warranty, while FuelPax provides a 5-year leak-free warranty.
While canned fuel may be a convenient solution in emergencies, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks. Firstly, the cost can be prohibitive, especially for those who need to store larger quantities of fuel. Secondly, there may be limited options for purchasing canned fuel, as some retailers may only offer it at select locations. Additionally, it is crucial to properly maintain and replace the fuel to avoid issues with engine performance, as ethanol-containing gas can cause problems if left unused for extended periods.
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Ethanol-free gas is a good option for small engines
Ethanol-free gas is worth considering for small engines, as it can help prevent engine issues and keep your equipment in good working condition.
Ethanol-blended fuels can cause problems in small engines, such as corrosion and clogging of the fuel system, leading to costly repairs. These issues arise due to the ethanol's ability to absorb moisture, which can result in water accumulation in the fuel tank. By choosing ethanol-free gas, you can avoid these potential problems and maintain the performance of your small engine equipment.
Additionally, ethanol-free gas is particularly beneficial if you plan to store your equipment for extended periods. Ethanol-blended fuels can break down fuel lines and cause carburetor issues when stored for long durations, whereas ethanol-free gas will keep better over time. This makes it ideal for seasonal equipment like snow blowers or lawnmowers, ensuring they start up easily after being stored during the off-season.
While the cost of ethanol-free gas may be slightly higher, the benefits it offers for small engines are significant. It can help prevent carburetor problems, reduce corrosion, and improve engine performance. If you use a variety of small engine equipment, such as lawnmowers, weed whackers, tractors, or motorcycles, ethanol-free gas can be a worthwhile investment to maintain their functionality and extend their lifespan.
However, it's important to note that ethanol-free gas is not a necessity for all small engines. Some users have reported using ethanol-blended fuels in their small engine equipment without experiencing any issues. Ultimately, the decision to use ethanol-free gas depends on your specific equipment, storage conditions, and personal preferences.
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Some people store 80 gallons of gas in their barn for emergencies
Storing gas in a barn or shed is a common practice, especially for those who live in rural areas and need fuel for farm machinery or vehicles. However, storing 80 gallons of gas in a barn requires careful consideration and adherence to safety regulations.
Firstly, it is essential to check local laws, ordinances, and insurance policies regarding gas storage. Most cities allow homeowners to store a "reasonable" amount of gas without a special permit, but the permitted amount can vary from 2.5 gallons to a few dozen gallons. Storing a large quantity of gas, such as 80 gallons, may require additional permits or safety measures.
Secondly, the storage area should be well-ventilated, cool, and detached from the main house. Gasoline vapors are toxic and explosive, and storing gas in an enclosed area can be dangerous. A detached barn or shed is ideal, as it keeps the gas away from ignition sources such as pilot lights, stoves, or furnaces. The storage area should not exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and gas cans should never be filled to the top to allow for gas expansion as it heats up.
Thirdly, gasoline should be stored in UL-classified containers, with red being the designated color for gasoline. These containers should be clearly labelled and locked up to prevent accidental access by children or animals.
Additionally, to maintain the quality of the gasoline, a fuel stabilizer can be added. Fuel stabilizers can extend the storage time of gasoline for up to a year and are inexpensive, typically costing around $8 per bottle.
Finally, it is crucial to prioritize safety when storing any amount of gasoline. This includes keeping a fire extinguisher near the storage area and educating oneself and others about the dangers of gasoline vapors and proper handling procedures.
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Emergency supply kits are recommended for long trips
Your emergency supply kit should include a variety of safety and survival supplies. The following is a list of items you should consider including in your kit:
- Jumper cables: Opt for heavy-duty cables that are at least 10-12 feet long to ensure they can safely reach between vehicles.
- Portable jump starter: This is a self-sufficient alternative to jumper cables, which is useful when another vehicle is not available.
- First aid kit: This is one of the most important items to include in your emergency kit. Ensure it includes all the essential first aid supplies to treat common injuries, including cuts, scrapes, swelling, sprains, and strains.
- Flashlight: Choose a flashlight with a long battery life and always keep spare batteries in your car emergency kit. A crank-powered, clip-on flashlight and smartphone charger is a compact but powerful tool that will ensure you have light and power in an emergency.
- Food and water: Include non-perishable food and a water container sufficient to hold a 3-day supply of water.
- Other items: Depending on the season and your specific needs, you may also want to include items such as gloves and hand warmers, an emergency Mylar sleeping bag and blanket, a rain poncho, road flares or reflective triangles, and basic tools and supplies to handle minor repairs.
Remember to update your kit regularly, replacing expired items, checking battery-operated devices, and inspecting tools and equipment for wear and tear.
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Frequently asked questions
Magic Tank Emergency Fuel is a non-flammable emergency fuel that works in any gasoline-powered vehicle and is safe to store in your vehicle or home. It does not contain any butane or other highly flammable components and is approved by the EPA, Department of Transportation, and National Fire Protection Association.
Canned fuel is an option for use in a car in an emergency. It is ethanol-free gas with a stabilizer added and is safe to store in your vehicle. However, it is expensive for car use compared to regular gas.
The cost of canned fuel is around $4 per gallon, plus the cost of the stabilizer, which is about 20 cents per gallon.
Magic Tank Emergency Fuel can be purchased at Home Depot.
