Good article on non oxygenated fuel:
Q I have a question about fuels. I understand the difference between premium gas with ethanol and premium gas without ethanol. I have been told that this is also called "racing fuel." Since non-ethanol premium fuel has become more readily available in recent years, I have used it in my small engines -- snow blowers, trimmers, lawn mowers, leaf blowers.
MORE Paul Brand Paul Brand
Q I have a question about fuels. I understand the difference between premium gas with ethanol and premium gas without ethanol. I have been told that this is also called "racing fuel." Since non-ethanol premium fuel has become more readily available in recent years, I have used it in my small engines -- snow blowers, trimmers, lawn mowers, leaf blowers.
I recently heard that the premium non-ethanol gas can damage or shorten the life of small engines because of the high octane and higher burn temperatures. Is this true? I thought it would be a better fuel as it eliminates the alcohol. I know my truck runs better on it, as does my motorcycle. What is the best fuel for smaller engines?
A It's a trade-off. The primary benefit of premium non-oxygenated fuel in any engine not operated on a regular basis is the reduced potential for moisture contamination in the fuel and the resultant phase separation and corrosion issues. The disadvantage is the higher octane rating, which is not necessary in most small engines. Higher-octane fuels are "built" with longer hydrocarbon molecules that burn more slowly. In low-compression engines -- typical of most small engines -- the slower burn rate can lead to more carbon deposits from unburned fuel.
But as I said, it's a trade-off. I'm willing to de-carbonize my small engines periodically as the trade-off to reduce the potential for moisture and/or phase separation with oxygenated fuels that sit in the tank for any significant length of time.
Adding SeaFoam to the fuel can help prevent these problems, but in my opinion non-oxygenated fuels are a better choice for any engine operated on a seasonal or intermittent basis.
The list of stations that offer non-oxygenated fuel for small engines, recreational vehicles and collector cars is listed on the Minnesota Street Rod Association Web page, www.msra.com.
Is premium 92-octane non-oxy fuel "racing fuel?" Not really. Racing fuel is typically 100 octane or more and can be dispensed only into suitable fuel containers, not directly into the fuel tank of a licensed automobile. This fuel, as its name implies, is designed for use in motorsports events.
