current thoughts on E85?

[klunkychris]

Hello all,
Thought experiment and I'm just researching right now. Not looking to do anything major to my '75 1800 engine (except de-smogging) until after I get it back on the road an enjoy it for a while.

I've been reading a lot of great info, but don't really see recent conversation about E85 for performance.

I know E85 is pretty evil on ruber and apparently the inside of carbs, but I'm considering a EFI conversion (IDF style maybe?). Also considering a turbo.
Has anyone experimented with EFI for high comression or turbo engines that are too extreme for premium gas?
It seems like the fuel lines and delivery system can be swapped out for compatible hoses etc. EFI wouldn't be having the issues carbs do. I'm wondering if a higher compression ratio (over 10.5 maybe?) would be succesful?

My spider will be a totally pleasure driven streat car and E85 is everywhere here in PA. Long term storage would be something to consider, but building a TC for E85 might not be too hard if it's accounted for in the beginning?

Has anyone tried to do this or at least thought about it?

[18Fiatsandcounting]

Do you mean E85 (Flex Fuel), which is up to 85% ethanol and 15% gas, or E10 or E15 which are 10 and 15% ethanol?

Ethanol burns hotter and faster than gasoline, but if the engine isn't set up to run on it, you won't see any performance gains. In fact, it will probably run worse. However, with a properly calibrated engine and fuel system, E85 can get you a lot higher equivalent octane ratings than gasoline. Good for turbos of even just advancing your ignition timing.

E85 (or E10 or E15) attracts water, so you could have fuel system corrosion issues if the car sits for long periods of time. Make sure your rubber hoses are good for ethanol, though.

Ethanol blends also tend to result in lower "gas" mileage.

OK, that's the extent of my knowledge on the subject...

-Bryan

[klunkychris]

Thanks Bryan
Yes, I mean E85= 85% ethanol
For the use my spider will get, reduced range shouldn’t be an issue and I see E85 often in regional gas stations and right by my house (Sheetz)

I do understand its storage issues which is a concern but not insurmountable.

I also know all rubber must be replaced and compatible fuel system parts would be needed (pump, pressure regulator etc)

Carbs take a beating especially if sitting for extended periods… but I would be looking info EFI (prob MS or Speeduino)

It just seemed like it may be a great option for either high compression or turbo. Especially turbo as one may be able to get away without an intercooler.

But the thought of the out of reach high compression engines that can’t be run on premium gas is also very interesting.

Just wondering what other’s thoughts are on the subject?

Chris

[ac3]

E85 is great for power, horrible for everything else as you know already. You’ll need PTFE lines and ethanol resistant gaskets if you choose to stay carb. I would definitely go fuel injected though as I haven’t seen any gaskets for any of the fiat carbs that are ethanol resistant, and you’ll have way more control over AFR’s. I run e85 on my turbo LS without an intercooler but If you can fit one then use it. My IAT’s are almost at 150 degrees in boost so it’s not ideal

[ElGrande]

Hello,

Me and many, many others used to run their cars on E85 without changing anything, sometimes just adjusting the EFI or adjusting the carb and ignition a bit...

I used to run it in an 1994 VW around 10 years ago for around one or two years straight
E85 smells pretty nice but has less power if you don't set up the engine for it.... But up to a 50/50 mixture the EFI was able to adjust to that stuff... gas became cheaper and even the car still runs 100% fine, zero problems with rubbers, seals etc.

But its alway a good idea to change the old rubber lines, filters etc. but beware that some of the new stuff just lasts a year because of the bad quality


Cheers

Norbert