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We, at C & E Yamaha, have seen a large increase in the number of fuel related repair work. This is most likely attributed to the emergence of Ethanol based Reformulated Gas in New England. As a service to our customers, we have put together this fact sheet to help orientate our customers on the use of Ethanol, how it may affect the performance of your Yamaha Powersports Vehicles and steps you can take to minimize the adverse effects of Ethanol. Unfortunately, due to the nature of today’s fuel, we cannot guarantee any carburetor work done.
What is Ethanol and why is it in the Gasoline?
Ethanol is an alcohol-based alternative fuel produced by fermenting and distilling starch crops that have been converted into simple sugars.
How do I know if my Gas has Ethanol in it?
Most gas stations will post the Ethanol content of their gas on their pumps. The most common and lowest concentration is E10(10% Ethanol and 90% gasoline). Another concentration that is gaining a lot of momentum is E85 (85% Ethanol to 10% gasoline) and commonly associated with today’s Flexible Fuel Vehicles on the market.
How does Ethanol affect my ATV, Motorcylce, Snowmobile or Rhino?
- Water in the tank can cause ethanol to separate into the water phase, resulting in either water being introduced into the engine fuel system or the octane content of the gas being reduced below engine driving requirements. Both of these conditions will cause poor performance or engine stalling and sputtering.
- Ethanol may re-dissolve scale or sludge in the tank and potentially carry it into the vehicle fuel system, clogging fuel lines and filters.
Is there a higher risk for Ethanol related problems in North East?
Yes. We experience a shorter season in the North East resulting in longer storage time for our Recreational Vehicles. Gasoline deteriorates in storage which tends to contribute to more engine deposits and gumming of carburetors and fuel injectors. Ethanols will then break down these deposits and introduce them into the engine’s fuel system.
Secondly, Ethanol Reformulated Gas is just now gaining popularity at our N.E. fuel stations. So vehicles that have had deposit issues prior to the introduction of Ethanol may contribute to realize issues until Ethanol has had an opportunity to clean all deposits. The effects of deposits may take several tanks of fuel until fully worked out of the system. In effect, the systems may appear resolved only to show up again a couple of weeks later, because the ethanol is still breaking up stubborn deposits.
**please note: fuel stabilizer will not prevent fuel deterioration problems when vehicle is in long-term storage.**