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A convenience store in my area has a pump specifically for ethanol free gas or 100% gasoline. The problem is that the price is approximately $.80 per gallon higher than regular gas containing ethanol.
The question is if the ethanol free gas is worth the extra expense?
I recently bought a 1987 Striper with a 2000 70 hp 2 cycle Johnson. My plan was to use regular gas containing ethanol with Sta-Bil Marine Formula treatment until finding the ethanol free gas. I am not sure of the cost of the additive, but I do not think it would be near the $.80 extra for the ethanol free gas, plus the additive would probably be advisable to use any way.
What is the best thing to do: ethanol free gas or ethanol gas with additive?
To me the ethanol free fuel is worth the extra money. Not only does my boat run better (no plecebo effect) but the fuel line and the carb gaskets don't deteriorate using it.
Ethanol is a scam and not an efficient fuel at all.
Edited by CES on 12/27/11 - 10:31 PM
Cliff
1966 13' Sport with a 1993 40hp Yamaha 2 Smoker
John, I have seen some of the other threads relating to ethanol and I know ethanol free would be better at the same or similar price. The question is more in regards to the value when a price tag is attached ($.80 per gallon), and value when using an additive (which adds a little to the cost)
I absolutely hate ethanol as a fuel substitute and agree with CES that it is a scam. That said, in regards to your question, "Should you pay the additional cost for ethanol free fuel", I would say No. If your boat and motor were older such as very early 1980s I would pay the extra but most boats and motors have been updated to deal with the ethanol since around the mid 80s.
If I had the ability to buy pure gas here I would certainly buy it for most of my older lawn and garden equipment because small engines seem to have the most trouble with the ethanol garbage.
Ethanol is not really a big can of worms, you either like and accept it or you hate the junk. Guess you know where I and many others stand! I prefer my corn on the dinner table or fed to the animals that feed me.
