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As interest in alternative fuels grows among American consumers, the word 'ethanol' seems to have become part of the everyday lingo. While the benefits of ethanol have been widely touted, there is concern among classic car enthusiasts about its effects on older vehicles. So, what is ethanol? It is an alcohol derived from plant matter, such as corn and sugarcane, and has actually been around since the days of the Model T when it was used as an additive to boost octane. Eventually it was phased out and replaced by lead additives until 1975, when the U.S banned leaded gasoline. Today, ethanol is mixed with regular gasoline - much like it was in the "old" days - to reduce both emissions and the total amount of gasoline we consume in our vehicles. In states where ethanol is mixed with the fuel supply, the fuel is comprised of a mixture of up to 10 percent ethanol to gasoline - also known as E10 - but no less than 5.7 percent ethanol, which is the level currently used in California. However, ethanol is also used in E85, an alternative fuel consisting of 85 percent ethanol, that should only be used in cars built specifically to utilize this fuel, such as FlexFuel vehicles. If your classic was born after the mid '80s, you have little to worry about as most of these vehicles were built to be compatible with ethanol-blended fuel. On the other hand, if you own an older car there is a chance you may experience deterioration of rubber components in the fuel pump, fuel lines, and carburetor. However, if you've had work done to your vehicle's fuel lines after the mid '80s, your replacement parts will be compatible with ethanol-blended fuel. Older vehicles may also experience vapor lock problems with ethanol, which can cause loss of power or stalling. Additionally, ethanol's high solvency capabilities can potentially cause loose sediment to clog your engine. An easy solution is to keep extra fuel filters on hand and to change them more frequently. Concerned classic car owners should remember that ethanol blends have been around for quite a while and if you haven't experienced problems, you're not putting your car at any further risk by continuing to use them. |