I received the new issue of Popular Hot Rodding in the mail yesterday,
and they have printed a letter from a reader asking about the bad
side effects of using oxygenated fuels. PHR pointed out that most
of the fuels are prepared using some type of alcohol. The alcohol will
pick up moisture from the fuel tank and carry it to the carbs. This is
a main source of trouble when using alcohol since the water will cause
corrosion. They suggested two solutions:
1. Use a micro paper filter in the fuel line. This will trap the water,
but it will eventually plug itself up when too much water is trapped and
pass no fuel at all. PHR suggested placing two filters in parallel with
a switch to divert the fuel line from one filter to another when one of
the filters is full.
2. Install a water trap in the fuel system. These are commonly found
on diesel fuel systems, and can be bought from a supplier of diesel
system parts. This sounds like it would be a good idea for a car that
perhaps sees infrequent use, allowing the moisture to condense in the
fuel tank.
I have no idea about the cost of either of these solutions. Anyone know
about diesel water traps?
-Jim.
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James A. Babcock, Software Engineer Email: jab@netrix.com
Netrix Corporation '92 Honda Accord
13595 Dulles Technology Drive '76 Triumph TR7
Herndon VA 22071 Give Blood -- It's a great feeling!
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