Auto fuel STC and ethanol

[Carrieve]

Hey guys. With almost all the auto fuel here in Wisconsin having Ethanol, has anyone found problems with running the stuff. I know all the experts say we can't but being a doubter at heart I really want to know what will happen. I am getting my BC-12D-85 going after some down time, and I am tempted to try some trials using premium auto fuel. There still are a few places where the premium auto fuel is Ethanol free but they are getting harder to find. I have taught automotive technology for years and I do have an above average knowledge of the fundamentals of fuel and ignition. I also don't want to have a serious problem either. Any help would be appreciated.

[Guest]

Re: Auto fuel STC and ethanol

Its not legal, it violates my STC and it is a solvent for all the sealants in my fuel system.

The only experience I have is when I put it in unknowingly and ended up with a wad of sealant blocking fuel flow in the fuel line.

Don't use it.

Dave

[GLB]

Re: Auto fuel STC and ethanol

Hi, alcohol will turn the type of rubber hoses used in aircraft to a gooey soft mess, also no good if your carb has a rubber needle. From traveling thur Wis the pumps I've seen the 91 oct was alcohol free. Here in MN that what I use in my Kitfox is the 91 oct alcohol free. Plus as posted it is illegal to use per the STC.

[Carrieve]

Re: Auto fuel STC and ethanol

OOPS,

I remember now the statement in my STC. I do have the steel needle in my carburetor as I hand lapped it in many years ago. My concern is, should I check for alcohol when ever I get premium auto gas? Knowing a little about the refinery here in Superior where a lot of our gas comes from I am a little concerned that maybe there may be some even though it is labeled No Ethanol.
Carrieve

[gnflyn]

Re: Auto fuel STC and ethanol

I am using autogas in my Tcraft and its working fine. Most important to test for any ethanol before you use it, the testing methods here and on EAA work fine. I did have to hook up with my local bulk fueling place to find where to buy non ethanol fuel. The folks there hate it, nothing but problems and extra expense. The good news is that some politico can stand up say "I'm for green", what a con of the American people......

[flyguy]

Re: Auto fuel STC and ethanol

Just went thru my head: ethanol = biochemical water injection. Never thought of it exactly that way before. Yuk.
DC

[Len Petterson]

Re: Auto fuel STC and ethanol

Ok we dont have a STC what alows us to fly with Ethanol in the gasolinewe all know why, it atracts water and it is proplems.
In Sweden Hjelmco oil has prodused a Avgas UL 87 94 sence 1980.
UL stands for UN Leaded!
NO ethanol in this avgas, and it is approved by FAA!
Why is it not prodused in North America.?
Go to hjelmco.se for more info on this product and if we scream loud enough as consumers maybe we can win!
Get informed and inform others!
Len Petterson.
Yes, have flown with this product in Sweden.
The Lycoming O 360 180 hp in a shortwing Cherokee ran god on it.
It was on a visit 1989