First, for the uninitiated, let’s tackle the question. What is E10? E10 is a gasoline mixture that contains 10% ethanol which is a type of alcohol that is derived from plants, typically corn. As a result, it is often considered a more eco-friendly alternative to your standard gasoline mixture.
While it’s a great “green” option that many might favor, its long-term use can create a number of issues for small engines that power lawnmowers, chainsaws and other power equipment. Let’s take a quick look at those potential problems and E10 effects on small engines.
1. Damage to the Fueling System
Corrosion is a common consequence of E10 usage. E10 is often more corrosive than pure gasoline, which is an impressive trait considering how corrosive we all know gasoline to be. As a result, it can more effectively break down engine components such as seals, hoses and gaskets. Down the road this typically means that the engine or the product itself will need to be replaced.
2. Water Absorption
Ethanol loves water. After all, ethanol is created from plant life and plant life cannot exist without its craving for water. Because of this water-loving property, E10 mixtures can actually absorb moisture from the air and this leads to fuel contamination.
As anyone knows, water is a big “no-no” when it comes to engine fueling systems and engine components. This can and often results with engine stalls and difficulties with starting the engine. This is especially true for lawn equipment because of seasonal use. In other words, if the fuel is idled in the engine for long periods of time then these issues are far more likely to surface.
3. Long-Term Storage Issues Complicate Matters
While on the subject of seasonal use, long-term storage is not recommended if E10 is in the fuel system. Ethanol breaks down a little more quickly than most other gasoline mixes and this will affect the performance of lawn care equipment from one season to the next. The typical shelf life of an E10 fuel mix is about three to six months. In other words, your mower will likely be impacted if E10 is left in its system over the winter and then into spring.
4. Clogged Fuel Lines
E10 gasoline will often leave behind deposits as it interacts with fuel system components. These deposits also have a negative impact on the engine’s operation as they tend to clog fuel lines and carburetor systems. Over time, you might notice degraded performance or the engine may simply fail to start.
Will E15 Be More Effective?
Generally speaking, the more ethanol in the mix, the more corrosive it may be. As a result, E15 might not be the solution for your E10 concerns. If you are a “go green” fan of the ethanol movement, you may consider using additives that are designed to stabilize ethanol’s corrosive effects. Also, you can empty your fuel tanks of E10 if your equipment will be idle for more than a season. However, when it comes to the long-term care of your lawn equipment, the recommendation is to always try for ethanol-free fuel. If you have experienced any issues with your small engine due to use of E10, look into small engine repair services such as what we offer at Classic Turf Equipment. For those most interested in the environmentally friendly reasons for using E10, consider switching to electric lawn equipment.
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