What are fuel stabilizers and how do they work?
Fuel stabilizer is an additive used to help keep fuels from degrading over time. Specifically, it helps reduce or eliminate the effects of condensation on stored fuels. It does this by creating a protective barrier on the fuel’s surface. This barrier helps prevent the formation of water drops that often result in oxidation and other adverse ...
Why should I use a fuel stabilizer?
- A fuel stabilizer formula made by the manufacturer that deals with gas-guzzling engines
- Has a triple antioxidation action, with separate chemicals to tackle different stages of oxidation in the fuel
- Lasts longer than the other formulas in its class, with a total time of three years of fuel treatment
How to properly use fuel stabilizer?
The Ratio of Fuel Stabilizer to Gasoline in a Lawn Mower
- Mix Based on Stabilizer Brand. The ratio of fuel stabilizer to gasoline varies by manufacturer. ...
- Stabilize All Fuel Types. Whether your mower’s engine calls for straight gasoline or a mix of gasoline and two-cycle oil, fuel stabilizer can be added to protect against moisture in ...
- Use With Fresh Gasoline. ...
- Pour or Filter. ...
Do bow stabilizers really work?
Do bow stabilizers really work? Yes, they do. Since you are not supposed to hold the raiser, the bow is meant to follow the path of the arrow. Without some weight on the front, without the stabilizer, the bow will try to go back to your shoulder instead of ahead as the arrow does.
Is fuel stabilizer any good?
The company's fuel stabilizer is a great choice for long-term storage, offering year-round protection and keeping gasoline fresh for up to 24 months. It also keeps your vehicle's fuel system in good running condition while it sits idle, removing water from the fuel system and preventing corrosion.
Does fuel stabilizer damage engine?
3:5513:16Does Fuel Stabilizer Prevent Ethanol Damage? Let's find out! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd as you can see there's a lot of corrosion that is formed on this aluminum. This is done a lot ofMoreAnd as you can see there's a lot of corrosion that is formed on this aluminum. This is done a lot of damage.
When should you use fuel stabilizer?
Within a few months, untreated gas fades in potency and can gum up the internals of the fuel system. Within 6 months, stored fuel can completely varnish the carburetor, requiring cleaning in order to get the engine running again. When your engine is in long-term storage, it is important to use a fuel stabilizer.
How long does it take for fuel stabilizer to work?
On a long enough timeline — usually three to six months, depending on the quality of the gasoline, but sometimes quicker — the oxidation process will start to degrade gasoline to the point where it becomes a soupy, varnish-like mess that can clog your fuel lines and gum up your tank, pump and injectors.
Can you put too much fuel stabilizer in a tank?
As we covered above, using too much fuel stabilizer in your gas won't have any adverse effects. Generally, using more stabilizers than you need will waste product, so that's the only major thing to worry about.
What happens if you put too much fuel stabilizer in your fuel?
You can use too much fuel stabilizer in your lawn mower, but the results are normally not dire and in some cases not noticeable. It can clog carburetors and cause corrosion over extended periods of time, but over adding fuel stabilizer normally will just waste stabilizer.
Is it better to drain gas or use stabilizer?
What to do instead: Avoid risks with gas stabilizer. Manufacturers sometimes recommend draining the tank to winterize a lawn mower because the worst thing you can do is leave old fuel in an engine during long periods of storage.
Does premium gasoline need fuel stabilizer?
At Fuel Ox, we are often asked “Is a fuel stabilizer really necessary?” The answer: Yes, it really is. The biggest issue with gasoline today is that it contains ethanol (10-15% in most cases) in the form of E10 or E15 blends.
How long does fuel stabilizer last in fuel?
one to three yearsFuel-stabilized gasoline keeps for one to three years. Stabilizers work best when you mix them with new gasoline; they're ineffective at slowing the degradation of old gas, and they can't return contaminated gas to working order.
What is the best fuel stabilizer?
BEST OVERALL: STA-BIL (22214) Storage Fuel Stabilizer, 32 fl. ... RUNNER-UP: Lucas Oil 10303 Fuel Stabilizer – 1 Quart.BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment Concentrate.BEST FOR YARD EQUIPMENT: Yamaha ACC-FSTAB-PL-32 Fuel Stabilizer & Conditioner.More items...•
What is the best fuel treatment?
Comparison of best fuel injector cleanersBrandPriceBest overall fuel injector cleanerChevron$9Best fuel injector cleaner for diesel enginesLucas$5, $13, $30Best fuel injector cleaner for high-mileage cars/engines/vehiclesGumout$7Best fuel injector cleaner for direct-injection cars/enginesRoyal Purple$81 more row•4 days ago
Does fuel stabilizer affect performance?
Add a small amount of fuel stabilizer to stored fuel and your lawn mower, snowblower, rototiller, chainsaw, generator and vehicle will start easier and run better. Fail to use fuel stabilizer can mean poor performance or an engine that fails to start at all after several months of storage.
Is gas stabilizer safe for cars?
VERSATILE – STA-BIL Storage Fuel Stabilizer is safe for use in all gasoline engines, including 2-cycle. Use this fuel treatment in your vehicle, motorcycle, lawn mower, snow blower, boat, and generator.
Is it better to drain gas or use stabilizer?
What to do instead: Avoid risks with gas stabilizer. Manufacturers sometimes recommend draining the tank to winterize a lawn mower because the worst thing you can do is leave old fuel in an engine during long periods of storage.
How long does fuel stabilizer last in fuel?
one to three yearsFuel-stabilized gasoline keeps for one to three years. Stabilizers work best when you mix them with new gasoline; they're ineffective at slowing the degradation of old gas, and they can't return contaminated gas to working order.
Does fuel stabilizer prevent ethanol damage?
It protects against ethanol damage by providing a protective coating on ALL the metal parts of the entire fuel system and combustion chamber, even when the engine is not running.
How does fuel stabilizer work?
Fuel stabilizer works to stop this oxidation and chemical breakdown from happening. By pouring it into your tank and running the engine for a few minutes to distribute it through the system, it functions partly as an antioxidant and partly by absorbing water before your fuel can do the same.
What is fuel stabilizer?
Fuel stabilizer is some of the most inexpensive insurance you can buy when storing a car, truck or small-engined tool (like a lawn mower or snowblower) long term. It gives you the peace of mind of knowing that when you go to start an engine after it’s been sitting for several months, the gasoline inside its tank will still be fresh enough ...
How long does it take for gasoline to degrade?
On a long enough timeline — usually three to six months, depending on the quality of the gasoline, but sometimes quicker — the oxidation process will start to degrade gasoline to the point where it becomes a soupy, varnish-like mess that can clog your fuel lines and gum up your tank, pump and injectors.
How does gasoline break down?
Gasoline is a blend of a number of different chemicals. Over time, it begins to break down, as it’s exposed to both oxygen and moisture from the air around it. Even if you store your vehicle with a full tank of gas to keep as much air out as possible, oxidation will still occur. This is especially true for modern gasoline that contains a high percentage of ethanol, which is hygroscopic, meaning it does a very good job of attracting and absorbing water. This only accelerates the breakdown of fuel.
Can you turn bad gas into good gas?
You can’t turn “bad” fuel into “good” fuel by adding fuel stabilizer, but you can keep gasoline relatively fresh over a long period of time by introducing it at the beginning of storage.
What is Fuel Stabilizer?
Fuel stabilizer, such as Berryman Total Fuel Stabilizer, is a solution that provides a protective layer for the fuel sitting in a gas tank. Typically made from petroleum products, fuel stabilizer bonds with gasoline to prevent evaporation. In doing so, it also prevents fuel from forming sticky resins that can quickly ruin a carburetor.
How long does fuel stabilizer last?
While the lifespan of fuel stabilizer varies depending on brand, most mixtures will preserve fuel for a full year. If you increase the dosage, you may even get longer protection from the concoction.
Why use fuel stabilizers in a lawn mower?
Whether you have fuel tanks sitting in the shed for your lawnmower or weed whacker, or a classic car waiting for the warmer days of summer to roll around once more, fuel stabilizers are a fantastic way to preserve the fuel in your tanks and keep all of your various motors running smoothly.
What type of gas is best for a fuel stabilizer?
This disperses the fuel stabilizer with gasoline and ensures that your tank is minimally exposed to air or water. For best results, opt for an ethanol-free type of gas.
What is stabilizer in carburetor?
On a chemical level, stabilizer is just a mixture of antioxidants and lubricants designed to repel water and limit evaporation.
How long does gasoline sit in a vehicle?
For people who own seasonal equipment, classic cars, or boats that tend to sit for more than three weeks at a time, however, fuel stabilizer is a fantastic idea.
How long does it take for fuel to go bad?
Fuel is a dynamic liquid, and when you leave it to sit around, it can go bad. According to RoadandTrack.com, fuel starts to spoil after just 30 days, unless it’s stored in an entirely airtight container.
When Should I Use a Fuel Stabilizer?
There are two situations when you should use fuel stabilizer. If you’ll be storing fuel in an approved gas can for more than a few months, put the required amount of stabilizer in the can, then add the fuel and seal the cap. If you’re adding stabilizer directly to the fuel tank that supplies an engine, put the required amount of stabilizer into the less than full tank, top off the fuel level, then start the engine. Allow it to run for 10 minutes so the stabilizer gets mixed with the fuel that enters the carburetor or fuel injection system, preventing gummy deposits and greatly increasing the odds of a quick-and-easy post-storage startup.
How Much Fuel Stabilizer Should I Use?
Directions on every bottle of stabilizer tell you how much to add for a given amount of fuel, and you’ll find that the quantities specified are small. A tablespoon or two in a lawnmower or chainsaw gas tank is enough to allow gasoline to burn cleanly even after years of storage. One small bottle of stabilizer preserves a full tank of fuel in a car or truck.
How long does it take for a fuel to ignite?
Chemical reactions within stored fuel, plus the evaporation of some volatile components, can leave liquid fuels less likely to ignite properly in an engine after more than three months of storage . Old fuel can also leave gummy deposits behind in sensitive areas of the motor.
Who is Steve Maxwell?
Steve Maxwell is an award-winning content creator who has published more than 5,000 articles, shot countless photos and produced video since 1988. Using his experience as a carpenter, builder, stone mason and cabinetmaker, he has created content for Mother Earth News, Reader's Digest, Family Handyman, Cottage Life, Canadian Contractor, Canadian Home Workshop, and many more. Steve lives on Manitoulin Island, Canada with his wife and children in a stone house he built himself. His website gets 180,000+ views each month, his YouTube channel has 58,000+ subscribers and his weekly newsletter is received by 31,000 subscribers each Saturday morning.
How does enzyme action affect fuel?
With enzyme action, this additive reduces phase separation due to ethanol and water in fuel, reduces gum and varnish in the engine and improves the octane of already-degraded fuel. It stabilizes fuel up to two years.
What is Sta Bil?
A product of Gold Eagle, Sta-Bil is one of the oldest names in fuel treatments and was founded in 1932. Quicksilver Quickstor Boating Magazine.
What happens if phase separation occurs in a tank?
If phase separation does occur in a tank, the process is immediate, complete and irreversible. ADVERTISEMENT. The Chemistry.
Is ethanol in gas good for boating?
We put them to the test! With ethanol in the gas, fuel stabilizers are as essential to boaters who store fuel for months as they are to those who boat every week. It was bad enough that non-ethanol gas could turn to crud, gumming up the works.
How to make your car shine?
Washing, wax, vacuum the interior. Make the tires shine. Clean the windows. Refill the washer fluid.
Do you need every kind of fuel additive?
Fuel additives certainly have value, certainly, or we wouldn’t be doing what we do. But that doesn’t mean you need every kind of fuel additive. There's a lot of options out there, we know. Some of them have value as regular elements of your car care routine. Others are the kind you only need every so often.
Do you need to treat ethanol in your car?
What? You don’t need to treat the ethanol fuel in your car? That’s not exactly what we’re saying. A good quality multifunction gas additive, like the one we talked about early on, might also contain ingredients that stop ethanol damage. And that’s definitely a good thing to have. But you don’t need any specialty additives for your car who’s primary function is to stop ethanol damage. Cars made in the last 15 years don’t have to worry about ethanol damage. It’s your SMALL ENGINES that you need to worry about, but that’s another show, so to speak. Stick with car care additives that do other things.
Do you need specialty additives for ethanol?
And that’s definitely a good thing to have. But you don’t need any specialty additives for your car who’s primary function is to stop ethanol damage. Cars made in the last 15 years don’t have to worry about ethanol damage. It’s your SMALL ENGINES that you need to worry about, but that’s another show, so to speak.
Do you need fuel stabilizers for gasoline?
Fuel Stabilizer – NOT NEEDED. Fuel stabilizers for gasoline are important to have for your seasonal gas that you use in your lawnmower and small engines. You don’t need them for your car. Remember, no matter if it’s for a one-time fixer or as part of your regular car care & maintenance routine, the best fuel additive is the one that works.
Why use fuel stabilizer?
Using fuel stabilizer will clean out the impurities and protect your vehicle from corrosive condensation build-up. Performance. The buildup in your engine causes your motor to work harder to run. This hinders your engine's abilities and takes away from its performance and fuel economy.
What happens if you don't put fuel stabilizer in your car?
And as these fuels age, they can leave behind gummy, gunked-up deposited throughout your engine. But if you use a fuel stabilizer, you can keep your fuel fresh, properly balanced, and perfectly stable with no evaporation — and no left-behind deposits in your engine.
What is Starbrite fuel treatment?
This company is behind the top-rated Star Tron Enzyme Fuel Treatment. Starbrite got its start in 1973 as an auto polish company. In the 80s, the company expanded its line to include the boat care and appearance market. Today, it makes treatments and additives for a vehicle, aircraft, home care, aviation, lawn mowers, motorsports, and motorcycle markets.
How does ethanol fuel stabilizer work?
The stabilizer’s ingredients clean and prevent deposits, both carbon and ethanol. It includes antioxidants that work to keep fuel fresh, and those same antioxidants also help you achieve quick, easy starts even after months of sitting unused.
How long can a fuel stabilizer be left alone?
Winterized vehicles can be left alone for up to a year without suffering noticeably.
Why is it so hard to start an engine after sitting idle?
Eliminate cold starts. The first time you start an engine after it has been sitting can sometimes be a pain. This is because sitting idle isn’t good for your motor, but using fuel stabilizer will help your engine and make that first start quick and easy.
How much does a fuel stabilizer cost?
$15 to $20: Most fuel stabilizers are priced between $15 and $20, making it an affordable investment whether you’re buying a basic or premium product. You’ll find all different kinds of fuel stabilizers from a wide array of brands within this price range, all in 8-ounce or 16-ounce containers.
How does a stabilizer work?
To address this, the stabilizer concoctions work to lower fuel’s ability to pick up that moisture. They might also add some type of alcohol so that the heavier mixture will burn—however poorly—when drawn into the fuel system and dispersed in the combustion chamber.
Does H2O separate from fuel?
That H2O content can reach a point where it will separate from the fuel, especially in long term storage. That water sitting at the bottom of the tank is the first thing to be picked up by the fuel pickup. To address this, the stabilizer concoctions work to lower fuel’s ability to pick up that moisture.
Can you add videos to your watch history?
Videos you watch may be added to the TV's watch history and influence TV recommendations. To avoid this, cancel and sign in to YouTube on your computer.
How do fuel stabilizers work?
It’s simple; fuel stabilizers simply slow down the oxidation process through a chemical mixture. Additionally, they help disperse any water that may get into the gasoline.
When should I use a fuel stabilizer?
Here’s the deal, your safest bet is to use a fuel stabilizer when gasoline is less likely to be used in the cooler months. While you most likely won’t need it, it can save you a lot of time down the road cleaning out a dirty carburetor and having to drain the gas out of your lawn care equipment.
Why does gasoline go bad?
It’s no secret if gasoline sits for too long, it will go bad. Typically this process takes about six months to a year. But it depends on a few factors.
How long does Sta Bil last?
STA-BIL Storage fuel stabilizer keeps fuel fresh for extended periods – up to 24 months.
What is Sta Bil?
STA-BIL products treat ALL types of fuel—and that includes every ethanol blend, from E-10 to E-85, as well as pure gasoline and diesel. This is widely known in the Midwestern area of the United States, where our manufacturing plant is based and ethanol-blended gasoline has been used for nearly three decades.
What is fuel stabilizer?
Our fuel stabilizers and treatments each contain a powerful mix of additives and chemicals that neutralize acids, prevent gasoline from oxidizing and coat metal surfaces to prevent corrosion.
What equipment sits between uses?
This is especially a concern with equipment that tends to sit between uses, like boats or lawnmowers.
Is Sta Bil a fuel treatment?
STA-BIL fuel treatment products —including our fuel stabilizer, ethanol treatment, marine formula and diesel fuel stabilizer—contain proprietary ingredients. While we can’t share the full list (it’s a trade secret), we can tell you that alcohol is NOT one of them.
Is Sta Bil safe to use?
Use of more flammable solvents like gasoline would make shipping and storage too dangerous. The addition of the recommended dose of STA-BIL product to fuel has always been safe. Dozens of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have confirmed this by testing and recommending our products.”.
Can stabil cleaner be used on fuel system?
If your equipment’s fuel system is already dirty and you’ve never used a fuel system cleaner, it’s possible the cleaning agents in a STA-BIL product will wash the dirt and grime off walls and into the fuel system. This is a common issue with older equipment and can end up clogging the carburetor.
