Engine damage resulting from 15% biogas

[freshairfiend]

I've heard a couple of horror stories regarding possible serious damage to older engines through the use of gasoline with a high bio content. Does anyone know anything about this subject? If so, is anyone aware of any additives that can be bought to minimize/reduce/obviate such damage?

[engatwork]

the use of gasoline with a high bio content

Not sure what you are referring to regarding bio?

If 15% ethanol content yes, it can be detrimental on older cars fuel systems.

[Stretch]

From what I have gleaned (and I haven't really looked into it yet - sorry) this is similar to the leaded unleaded problem but there's the added trouble of the water content of bio content of the fuel separating and causing trouble with fuel systems. People are using fuel stabalisers more and more for older cars that don't get used so much. There are also the lead substitute additives - some seem to work some don't. Lots of fair weather motorcyclists in the UK seem to be having trouble with the bio content put in petrol - they seem to spend most of their riding time repairing carburetors

[tecqboy]

Just how "old" are you asking about? 15% ethanol is higher than recommended even for many modern engines. 10% is the usual blend. Ethanol attacks the rubber parts of older engines fuel systems. But I believe that most cars built as much as 30 years ago can handle 10%. They started to phase lead out in the early 70's.

[oldsinner111]

they run high alcohol content in Brazil.I'm sure there are up graded parts to handle it.

[freshairfiend]

I referred to biofuel perhaps wrongly as I had meant ethanol which is, I believe derived from a biomass source. My query comes because I plan a trip through the Northwestern states in a short while and am under the impression that 15% ethanol content is not uncommon there. If such is clearly marked and avoidable I guess there's no problem, however the car I'll be driving is a 1985 280SL and I would hate to look at the cost of rebuilding the engine! Any advice re precautions to be taken would be gratefully received.

[hill]

Originally Posted by freshairfiend

I referred to biofuel perhaps wrongly as I had meant ethanol which is, I believe derived from a biomass source. My query comes because I plan a trip through the Northwestern states in a short while and am under the impression that 15% ethanol content is not uncommon there. If such is clearly marked and avoidable I guess there's no problem, however the car I'll be driving is a 1985 280SL and I would hate to look at the cost of rebuilding the engine! Any advice re precautions to be taken would be gratefully received.

My 67 250sl runs fine on 10 percent.

[DieselPaul]

All of my cars run fine on ethanol blended fuels.

[oldsinner111]

over 10% I would use a lubricating subtance to lube upper cylinder,and protect sensitive parts.Marvel Mystery Oil comes to mind.