E85 and steel tank
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TECH Resident
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 993
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From: Mechanicsburg, PA
E85 and steel tank Ordered a new steel fuel tank because it's baffled for an electric pump (car has a carb style tank now). Still hasn't come but I just realized it says it's only good up to 20% ethanol. Anyone else using a china replacement tank on E85? Troubles? Says its made from OEM approved ni-terne steel. I do not want a fuel cell. This is a street car and will see lots of use and abuse.
No first hand experience only what I have read over the last few years. New tanks don't seem to be an issue, Some have said the tank looks new after a couple years of use. Older tanks sometimes had issues because E85 acted like a solvent that broke loose and plugged filters/injectors.
The only thing I recommend to anyone using E85 is to run the tank low and add some regular gasoline and a stabilizer if it's going to sit for more than 5-6 months.
The only thing I recommend to anyone using E85 is to run the tank low and add some regular gasoline and a stabilizer if it's going to sit for more than 5-6 months.
So first hand experience here.... I made a steel fuel cell that I then coated with fuel tank sealer (claimed to be alcohol and ethanol compatible) after about 2 years the coating starting peeling off the inside of the tank. I cleaned the tank, so its just bare metal and its been fine for at least a year and stays super clean.
I think you'll be fine. Few Issues I've seen are rust related. Ethanol is hydroscopic, it sucks up moisture. So humid areas where I live can be more of a problem. Dry places, no so much. Anyway the fuel will leave a gummy residue and that residue attracts water and can corrode and rust over time. Those coated tanks are pretty good and I'd bet a new one will last you 15-20 years before you see much corrosion. Id go as far as putting a decent ball valve on the vent. If you store it over the winter or any real amount of time close off the vent off. JUst don't forget its closed! I've done that a time or two... 
Thread Starter
TECH Resident
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 993
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From: Mechanicsburg, PA
It'll be used year round, if the roads are ok. If she sit's I'll go get ethanol free fuel. Never has issues with my other old cars collecting moisture. And some of them have sat longer than I care to admit. But found the warning worrisome. I wondered if it had to do with the glue for the baffle. Figured it would eat through it and let the baffle slide around. I'll be sure to setup fuel pressure safeties on it as well. Thanks guys!
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Joined: Nov 2003
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From: Norn Iron
What are they saying is the issue ?
If it is an uncoated tank and rust is the issue....the more you keep it full with less surface exposed to potential moisture etc, the longer it will last.
Or just have it treated internally.
If it is an uncoated tank and rust is the issue....the more you keep it full with less surface exposed to potential moisture etc, the longer it will last.
Or just have it treated internally.
in the wetter months i usually switch to e10/91 pump premium and try and keep the tank full if it's gonna be parked
sometimes i have to put it away with e85 in the tank, in that case I add ethanol stabilizer
sometimes i have to put it away with e85 in the tank, in that case I add ethanol stabilizer
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Verdad Gallardo Thread Starter
TECH Resident
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 993
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From: Mechanicsburg, PA
Anything I know will sit long term gets AV Gas. Haven't found anything more stabile over the long haul.
Disclaimer: It's low lead, so be careful. Hard on O2 sensors as well.
Disclaimer: It's low lead, so be careful. Hard on O2 sensors as well.
My 92 mustang has the stock steel tank in it and the car has been on E85 for about 6 years now with no issues. I would just make sure you are checking your fuel filter once or twice a year to monitor. You'll know by the status of the filter if you've got rust or other fuel issues.