Regarding gasoline, how old is old? How does ethanol gasoline compare to non ethanol as far as longevity is concerned? Also, should we store our cars with a full tank of gas or an empty tank considering the type of gas in it?
-
-
Re: How old is old
Most refiners say the shelf life of gasoline is one year, but that's conservative. All gasoline is blended with stabilizers. Ethanol attracts water, but also acts as a cosolvent that keeps the water/alcohol mix from dropping out until a lot of water has accumulated. Straight gasoline cannot absorb much water before it drops out to the bottom of the tank.
The storage environment is very important. A non-condensing storage environment goes a long way toward preventing water accumulation, especially on vented systems. (Evap systems that semi-seal the fuel system as was established in the seventies will lower the rate of water intrusion.)
As a general rule a conventional home garage suffices as a satisfactory storage environment, especially for short term storage like over the winter months.The fuel tank should be filled prior to short term storage to minimize the "vapor dome" because the less its volume, the less likely the fuel is to absorb moisture, especially on vented systems.
If storage is expected to be more than two to three years, I suggest draining the fuel system.
Duke -
Re: How old is old
Thank you Duke for your expert explanation.Comment
Comment