Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Ethanol Issues

Posted by ioptfm on 02/02/08 - 6:46 PM
#1

Maybe this is a dumb question, but I've noticed several threads referring to owners modifying their tanks and Pate closing it doors due to Ethanol issues. What is this all about? :o

Posted by tlverdick on 02/04/08 - 12:42 PM
#2

Alcohol in the fuel of a 2-stroke causes several problem:
1- it causes the oil th separate from the gas, so it requires that the fuel be shaken before each use to remix it.
2- it washes the oil film off the intrurnal parts of the engine.
3- it is hydoscopic, so it attracts moisture from the air. it also pick up any water in your tanks. the water in the tank carries with it all the dirt & junk.

Alcohol in fuel should be avoided if at all possible. you can buy an acohol tester at you local Briggs & Stratton dealer. most states don't require that stations disclose the achohol content in fuel unless in is above 10%.

Posted by Bo Neato on 02/04/08 - 1:11 PM
#3

To oversimplify, the ethanol gas was reacting with the fiberglass tank, resulting in particles in the fuel that got past the filters and caused big trouble. Read about it here:

http://www.boatus.com/seaworthy/fuelt...eltest.asp