The Effect of Gasohol on Old Cars

Older cars may be susceptible to damage from ethanol.

Gasohol refers to a blend of ethyl alcohol and gasoline (usually 10 percent ethanol, known as E10). Because ethanol also acts as a solvent, it causes concerns for older cars which were not designed for this type of fuel.

History

Some of the earliest cars in American history were actually made to run on ethanol, however, ethanol cars became very rare as gasoline beat out ethanol as the fuel of choice for automobiles.

Effects

Low concentrations of ethanol (around 5 to 10 percent) may weaken and eventually destroy rubber parts such as gaskets and seals. As concentrations get higher, ethanol removes build-up in the gas tank that could then get caught in other parts of the car.

Potential

Ethanol tends to retain water. This water retention could rust gas tanks and cause water damage to other components of the car.

Considerations

The exact effects of gasohol on older cars will depend on the particular year and model of the car, as well as the percent of ethanol in the gasohol compound.

Prevention/Solution

Classic car owners should clean out their car's fuel tank and seal it with an ethanol-proof material if they are worried about potential complications from ethanol. People not planning to use an old car for a while should add a fuel stabilizer.

References

• Colorado State Extension: Alcohol for Motor Fuels
• Hagerty: Ethanol Frequently Asked Questions
• Kettering University: Bio-Fuels and Classic Cars