Interesting fuel question...

charleskennedy23 · Post by **charleskennedy23** » 24 Aug 2016, 15:44

Here's the situation... I just moved to Jacksonville Florida and discovered that our local Gate gas stations offer ethanol free gas with and octane rating of 89... That is the same octane rating as the mid grade fuel. i believe premium fuel has an octane rating of 91 here... So here's the question... Which is better for our white block engines... 89 rated fuel w/o ethanol or 91 rated but with up to 10% ethanol?

I hope this doesn't get ugly, lol.

beigg · Post by **beigg** » 24 Aug 2016, 16:26

which ever one is cheaper and close near by.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 24 Aug 2016, 17:24

As much as I hate ethanol in fuel the octane is more important to the turbo engine than is the fact that regular gas is ethanol free. The mileage will be about a wash (pure gas has more power per unit of volume) but the higher octane will keep the turbo engine from getting on the knock sensors. Other than the airport or a marina I really can't find real gasoline in my parts at any of the major service stations. There are a few independent stations on the way to the Lake that cater to people who trailer their boats but they are few and far between.

...Lee

Post by **erikv11** » 24 Aug 2016, 22:31

The 91 will be better for Hagrid's engine.

Post by **abscate** » 25 Aug 2016, 04:55

Also, consider your driving habits. If you drive like me, keeping below boost, you can save money and buy cheap gas. If you zip Hagrid around above 60 a lot, buy the 91.

charleskennedy23 · Post by **charleskennedy23** » 25 Aug 2016, 06:54

Thanks for the replies everyone... Sounds like the higher octane is the way to go until our government realizes that using our food supply for fuel is bad for engines as well as pocketbooks.

In response to abscate... I so wish I had your discipline, but the t5 is too much fun to avoid a spirited pull or two on the old daily commute.

Post by **abscate** » 25 Aug 2016, 07:12

Man has to know his limitations.

I do run 91 or 93 when I tow boats.

I just did my NJ circuit from upstate at 60 instead of 65 and got that coveted 28 mpg instead of 25

Post by **E Showell** » 31 Aug 2016, 04:51

And you didn't tell me you were going to be in town . . . Well, I'll be in the Hudson Valley for a late September weekend -- son's college parent's day.

Post by **abscate** » 31 Aug 2016, 05:15

Yeah I did a big Somerset..Plainfield loop all in one day. Mega good business trip, though.