Ethanol fuel in SBC

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Sep 13, 2005 | 11:29 PM

91Z28

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From: Midland

Ethanol fuel in SBC

One time I filled up on gas and my car ran like ****. I figured out it was because I went to a gulf station and they use 10% ethanol, and some cars don't like it. This was in an 80s oldsmobile that I was using as a beater. Today I didn't go to Sunoco in the Camaro like I usually do because another gas station at 40 cent cheaper gas, and foolishly I filled up. After filling my tank I noticed the "10% ethanol sign" and I thought uh oh. It isn't sputtering like my old beater, but it isn't idling as good. Anyone else have a problem with ethanol fuels in their SBC running 10:1 compression or higher?

Sep 14, 2005 | 07:24 AM

CTSV05

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From: Newark, Ohio

Generally the ethanol will add a little power, but, it carries more moisture than 100% gas.

Also I always found a significant drop in mileage too.

The idle will change depending on the fuel, my truck idle increases 2-300 rpm when I mix 93 with the 110, as opposed to straight 110.

Sep 14, 2005 | 05:56 PM

91Z28

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I think my engine is running kind of crappy on ethanol. I remember back in the day when some cars stalled on it.

Sep 16, 2005 | 07:05 AM

CTSV05

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I try and stay away from it, the 2 together just don't seem to mix.

Sep 16, 2005 | 11:55 AM

91Z28

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The car is taking much longer to start up also.

Sep 16, 2005 | 04:30 PM

GETGONE

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From: Middleville, Michigan

In Michigan nearly ALL gas is mixed with 10-15% ethanol. I have NEVER had an issue with it in ANY vehicle. My Camaro runs great and pulls down 22-26mpg depending if its city or highway and consistent 13.1-.2 on the track. I usually fill up at Speedway but whereever it's cheapest is where I go.