E85 Boondoggle of the Day: MN Gov. Says Double Ethanol in "Regular" Gas
Although we haven't seen studies on the subject, we suspect that many motorists who fill-up with E85 don't return once they discover the [unadvertised] reduction in efficiency vs. "normal" (E10) gas. Maybe that's why none of the major oil companies have installed E85 pumps. The ethanol industry realizes that all the subsidies in the world won't guarantee them a future if consumers line-up none deep for E85. But… what if you doubled demand by increasing the mandatory ethanol content for ALL gas blends from 10 to 20 percent? Corrosion? What corrosion? According The Toledo Blade, Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty released a report by The North Star State's "two largest research universities" that claims the move would be safe for non-E85-compatible cars. "The study tested 40 pairs of vehicles, half of which were powered with fuel containing 20 percent ethanol, and compared performance and damage, finding little difference between the two fuels. Part of the study was funded by the Renewable Fuels Association, an advocacy organization for the ethanol industry." What's the bet they funded the part that says it's OK to double ethanol content?
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"finding little difference between the two fuels" Yes the only "little" difference they noticed was the complete degredation of engine seals in the 20% ethanol cars, which is quite minor when you consider what a smalll percentage of the overall car these actually make up.
Let them eat cake!
If car owners suffer mechanical problems, that is not their problems. Happy farmers and hippies are more important. Taking the lead out of gas was probably justified for health and safety reasons, adding corn to the tank is not. Expect big price increases on top of worse mileage, clogged fuel filters and injectors, and higher evaporation loss. the ethanol sends deposits through the fuel system, on older vehicles this causes a problem. Again, YOUR problem not theirs. Next up is mandatory E85 for certain areas, along with hybrid cars. No permit on your windshield? park it over there and take the bus.
I remember as of a few years ago, I noticed a reduction in performance on my '93 BMW. Had my mechanic check out the fuel system completely, O2 sensor was replaced, fuel filter, injectors, and finally the fuel pump. It's better now, but I really do think the 'new' gas was to blame, and so did my mechanic. Frustrating, since I don't think I should be punished for owning an older car, especially since it's in better condition than many 5 year old cars on the road!