Rajan Wilcox
E85 is a popular choice of fuel for many car owners, offering high octane, cheap prices, and cool-burning properties. However, some drivers are concerned about its potential impact on their vehicles, particularly the Subaru BRZ. While E85 can deliver impressive horsepower gains in the BRZ, there are considerations to be made regarding fuel stabilizers, engine tuning, and the potential for corrosion and seal issues. With varying ethanol content and a shelf life of around four weeks, E85 requires careful handling and may not be suitable for all vehicles or storage conditions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Engine damage | E85 can cause engine damage under certain operating conditions. |
| Fuel tank corrosion | E85 is corrosive and can cause fuel tank corrosion over time, especially in non-compliant vehicles. |
| Fuel economy | E85 can result in a reduction in fuel economy, with some users reporting a 30% decrease. |
| Fuel stability | E85 has a shelf life of about 4 weeks before it starts losing its combustible properties. |
| Fuel system damage | Prolonged use of E85 can cause fuel system damage, including leaks and breakdowns. |
| Fuel injector damage | E85 can cause fuel injector damage, especially if the vehicle is not driven for an extended period. |
| Fuel pump failure | E85's hygroscopic properties can lead to fuel pump failure, especially if the vehicle is not in use for a long time. |
| Flex fuel kits | It is recommended to wait for flex fuel kits and tuning to allow the car to adjust the ethanol content in real time. |
| Fuel line damage | E85's corrosive properties can cause fuel line damage, but newer flex fuel cars have lines made of resistant materials. |
| Oil contamination | E85 produces more moisture than gasoline, which can lead to oil contamination. |
| Engine lubrication | Some oils are compatible with E85 and can help prevent engine damage. |
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What You'll Learn
E85 can cause engine damage under certain operating conditions
E85 is a popular fuel option for many car owners due to its high octane rating, affordability, and cool-burning properties. However, it is important to understand that under certain operating conditions, E85 can cause engine damage.
One of the main concerns with E85 is its higher water content compared to gasoline. This can lead to increased moisture in the engine, potentially resulting in oil contamination and subsequent engine damage. In some cases, the mixture of blowby, E85, and water can cause a loss of compression and engine failure. Therefore, it is recommended to use high-quality synthetic oil and change it more frequently to mitigate this issue.
Additionally, E85's corrosive properties, due to its ethanol content, can cause wear and tear on engine components over time. Mechanical parts such as fuel pumps, fuel injectors, and pistons may be at risk of damage, especially in engines with higher compression ratios and materials sensitive to corrosion.
Furthermore, E85 may not be suitable for all vehicles. Engines manufactured before 2001, particularly those produced before 1994, may not be compatible with E85 and could experience issues. It is important to ensure your vehicle is properly sealed and compatible with E85 or has the necessary modifications, such as a "flex-fuel" system, to handle this type of fuel.
While E85 can provide benefits such as reduced fuel costs and emissions, it is crucial to consider the specific operating conditions and compatibility of your vehicle to avoid potential engine damage. Regular maintenance and monitoring of the fuel system are also essential when using E85.
In the case of the Subaru BRZ, some owners have reported successful use of E85 with the help of modifications like the Vishnu Openflash Tablet (OFT) for engine tuning. However, it is always recommended to consult with professionals and consider the specific make and model of your vehicle before converting to E85 to ensure compatibility and avoid any potential engine issues.
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E85 is hygroscopic, which can cause fuel injector damage
E85 is a type of fuel that contains up to 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. It is a popular choice for those seeking higher engine performance, as it offers a higher octane rating and improved cooling capabilities compared to traditional gasoline. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind when using E85, especially regarding its impact on fuel injectors.
One important characteristic of E85 is its hygroscopic nature, which means it has a tendency to absorb water. This can lead to potential issues with fuel injector damage. When E85 absorbs water, it can cause corrosion and chemical compatibility issues with fuel system components, including fuel injectors. The absorbed water can result in rust formation within the injectors, leading to reduced valve lift and impaired injector function. In some cases, the injectors may become stuck, affecting the flow rate and overall engine performance.
To mitigate these issues, it is crucial to ensure that your vehicle is compatible with E85 fuel. Installing an E85 capability kit, such as the eFlexFuel kit, can help optimize the fuel injection process for E85 and minimize the risk of injector damage. Additionally, regular maintenance and the use of ethanol or fuel stabilizers can help prevent water contamination and maintain the integrity of the fuel system.
It is worth noting that modern vehicles, particularly those produced after 1994, are generally designed to be compatible with ethanol-based fuels. Federal laws mandate that vehicles must be able to operate with ethanol blends, reducing the likelihood of engine damage caused by E85. However, it is always advisable to consult with a specialist or a tuner to ensure your specific vehicle can safely utilize E85 fuel.
In summary, while E85 can provide performance benefits, its hygroscopic nature may lead to fuel injector damage if not properly managed. By ensuring vehicle compatibility, installing appropriate conversion kits, and maintaining the fuel system, you can help minimize the risk of injector issues associated with E85's water absorption properties.
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E85 can be used for big HP gains with an OpenFlash Tablet
E85 is a blend of ethanol and gasoline, with 85% of the mixture being ethanol and the remaining 15% being gasoline. It is a popular choice for car enthusiasts looking to boost their engine's performance, as it has a higher octane rating than traditional gasoline, allowing it to withstand more compression before detonating. This results in more boost and increased power output, with power gains ranging from 5% to 15%.
However, E85 requires careful maintenance and consideration. It has a shelf life of about four weeks and can cause corrosion, inconsistent blends, and phase separation if misused. Before using E85, it is essential to consult your vehicle's owner's manual to ensure compatibility. Additionally, for optimal performance, your engine should be properly tuned, and your fuel system may require upgrades to handle the increased demands.
The OpenFlash Tablet (OFT) is a convenient tool for tuning your car's engine to run E85. It allows you to “flash” or rewrite your car's computer with a customized tune, maximizing the performance of your modifications. The OFT provides a stable rpm while idling and can be used for switching between different fuels, data logging, engine monitoring, and code reading/clearing.
By using the OpenFlash Tablet, you can safely tune your FR-S, BRZ, or Toyota 86 to run on E85, resulting in significant horsepower gains. The process involves reflashing the ECU to recognize and adjust to various parameters, such as elevation, gas quality, and air temperature. This ensures that your engine runs safely and efficiently, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of E85 without the hassle of frequent manual tuning.
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E85 can cause corrosion and seal issues
E85 contains up to 85% ethanol and the rest is gasoline. It can be harmful to fuel lines, fuel pumps, and other fuel system components that aren't resistant to ethanol.
There are stories about E85 eating fuel lines, injectors, pumps, and other fuel system components. These stories are not entirely true. E85 can corrode fuel systems that were built in or before 1993. However, E85 has been safe to use for decades. The ethanol in E85 doesn't eat or damage fuel injectors. In fact, ethanol cleans fuel injectors and keeps catalytic converters clean.
E85 is corrosive and it absorbs moisture, so it will rust steel. It is recommended to flush the system before parking for winter.
Some people have reported using E85 for several years without any issues. However, others have reported corrosion on the bolts holding the bowls on after long-term use.
If you have a vehicle that was manufactured in 1994 or later, you don't have to worry about ethanol eating anything in its fuel system. Most newer vehicles are built with E85-compatible components. However, if you have an older vehicle, you may need to install an E85 capability kit to ensure compatibility.
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E85 has a shelf life of about 4 weeks
E85 is a fuel that can be used in some vehicles, including the Subaru BRZ. It has a high octane rating and burns coolly, but it can cause issues in certain operating conditions. One concern is that E85 produces more moisture than gasoline, which can lead to oil contamination. Additionally, E85 has a limited shelf life, typically around four weeks, after which it starts to lose its combustible properties. This can result in issues when starting the vehicle, such as backfiring.
To extend the shelf life of E85, it is recommended to use a fuel stabilizer, especially for winter storage. There are specific E85 fuel stabilizers available, such as the Lucas Ethanol stabilizer. It is also suggested to drive the vehicle until the fuel is extremely low and then add the stabilizer before refilling with 91 or 93 octane fuel. This process helps to ensure the E85 fuel remains effective and prevents potential issues caused by degraded fuel.
Proper storage conditions are crucial for maximizing the shelf life of E85. It should be stored in a fully sealed, dark-colored container, preferably a 55-gallon drum that is grounded and kept off the floor. Storing the drum in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, can further prolong the fuel's lifespan. Additionally, keeping the container sealed minimizes oxygen exposure, reducing the risk of fuel degradation.
While E85 has a shelf life of about four weeks, some reports suggest that it can be stored for longer periods when properly stabilized and stored. Some users have claimed successful use of E85 after storing it for a year or more. However, it is essential to monitor the fuel's condition and be aware of any changes in color or other indications of degradation.
In summary, E85 has a limited shelf life, and proper storage and maintenance are necessary to ensure its effectiveness and compatibility with vehicles like the Subaru BRZ. By using fuel stabilizers, employing recommended storage practices, and regularly monitoring the fuel's condition, users can maximize the lifespan and performance of E85 while minimizing potential issues associated with fuel degradation.
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Frequently asked questions
E85 is a type of ethanol fuel that can be used in some vehicles, including the BRZ. While it is a high-octane and cost-effective option, it does have certain drawbacks and can cause issues under specific conditions. It is important to consider the potential risks and take necessary precautions when using E85 in your BRZ.
One of the main concerns with using E85 in any vehicle, including the BRZ, is its hygroscopic nature, which means it attracts water. This can lead to moisture buildup in the engine and oil contamination, potentially causing damage. Additionally, E85 has a shorter shelf life than gasoline, losing its combustible properties after a few weeks. It is also important to note that using E85 may void your warranty, so it is recommended to exercise caution and consult with a specialist before making any modifications.
Yes, there are several precautions you can take. Firstly, consider using fuel stabilizers, especially during winter storage, to maintain fuel quality. Additionally, ensure your engine reaches full operating temperatures by taking longer drives, as short drive cycles may not allow the engine to get warm enough, leading to potential issues. You can also use oils that are compatible with E85, such as Torco TR-1R, and consider oil analysis to detect any contamination early on.
To safely and effectively use E85 in your BRZ, it is recommended to tune your engine using a method like ECU Tuning or ECU Reflashing. This allows the car's computer to adjust parameters and inputs to accommodate E85, ensuring a safe and efficient performance. Additionally, consider bolt-on modifications to increase power output and enhance the overall driving experience. Always consult with specialists or tuners who can provide custom ECU flashing and tuning services.
