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I know there has been countless post and debates on E10 fuel, non E10 regular and premium fuel, I have a 1979 80HP Merc, I have replaced all old fuel lines to new standards, and have run E10 fuel with additives and proper upkeep of fuel system and have not run into any issues.
I normally fill at the local gas station, but last week ran low on fuel on the water and went to the closest marina only to find out they only sell premium fuel with no ethanol, ran the whole tank and no perceived difference, i checked several of the marinas in the area and that is they sell now.
I also found out that my local gas station sells premium fuel for the same price as regular E10 on Thursdays, so do I bother using E10 with additives or do I use premium for the same price less additives, since their is no financial downside at the pump is there a downside to my motor.
It seems like the most helpful thing to do when using E10 gas is just to make sure the engine is regularly run. I know nothing about winterization since I live in Texas and run year-round but others here are definitely more knowledgeable about that.
No, the motor will perform the same BUT, the fuel manufacturers and some owners will claim that an outboard will perform better with higher octane fuel and the "additives" also help.
Having just paid $400 to have my carbs disassembled and the varnish removed on a 1989 2-stroke Yamaha, and being told countless times by numerous mechanics that e-10 is creating business at an increasing rate. I would pay up for non eth fuel any time it was available for my boat, saws, generator, mower, blowers ect. I can only find it two places, neither convenient, but I get 10 gallons and make sure it goes in the small stuff.
If you use the boat weekly, there is no problem since you have changed you fuel supply line.
