07-15-2008, 05:56 AM
quote:
Originally posted by Big_Island
Buying all my gas from Mountain View General Store as they sell Non Ethanol fuel!!!
All gasoline sold in Hawaii has an ethanol mixture of 10%. It can fluctuate between a low of 7% to a maximum high of 12%, but according to the state, there is no such thing as ethanol free gasoline on Hawaii regardless of what anyone tells you. Only if the amount exceeds 15% are additional signage required, otherwise the standard sticker is all needed on a pump. Gasoline with a 10% mixture of ethanol has been sold in the US for decades with no adverse effect on equipment. All fuel delivery systems can handle 15% ethanol without any problem.
What you may be experiencing is what has been occurring in many rural areas of the mainland for the last year. Doctored fuel. Somewhere between the gasoline leaving the refinery (it’s tested at that point) and your fuel tank, something may be added. Normally whatever additives are introduced are planned and tested, but with skyrocketing prices, some people have devloped hidden ways to dilute the gasoline to maximize profits or hide theft. Many of these items can cause problems in fuel delivery systems. The most common is used paint thinner and other used flammable cleaning products.
I’m not sure what agency is responsible for gasoline inspections for quality, but if you suspect doctored gasoline, you should report it.