Ethanol in fuel - a potential disaster??

[jyasaki]

Originally Posted by Max...

Sadly I am old enough to remember 4 star - I suspect the high octane 4 star we grew up with was like rocket fuel in comparison to the bio-crap EU-juice we get now...

In what way?

High octane fuel does not burn hotter or more powerfully; it's simply harder to ignite. Octane is a burn retardant.

Higher octane fuel is designated for high performance engines because the higher compression ratios would pre-detonate lower fuel grades. The higher octane fuel will delay ignition until there actually is a spark.

That said, ethanol-laced fuel has a (very) slightly lower energy content than straight gasoline, but tends to increase the octane rating compared to (not the actual octane content.) That's assuming I remember the science correctly.

jky

[mick]

Originally Posted by A1an

I've not been able to get that tune out of my head all day.

http://youtu.be/nI1YsvsG32s.
Just for you 12" mix

[Pikey Dave]

Originally Posted by Max...

stick to the Super Unleaded BP types,

I don't know about BP, but Shell Vpower has more ethanol than the regular unleaded. Ethanol is used to increase the octane rating of fuels. Modern cars can take advantage of the increased octane rating as they have knock sensors & can adjust their timing. Most outboards don't have knock sensors, (some of the big Etecs do) so using premium fuels in outboards is counterproductive. BRP recommend "regular" unleaded for use in Etecs.

[kerny]

Originally Posted by Pikey Dave

so using premium fuels in outboards is counterproductive. BRP recommend "regular" unleaded for use in Etecs.

That's all mine is getting... feckin dear enuff as it is