E85 Fuel

[Flyer]

Here is a warning from not so smart me. Pulled up to the pump where they had a diesel nozzle and an E85 unleaded nozzle. I "assumed" that E85 was 15% alcohol and put in 60 gal (75 gal tank). Then I got a little concerned and got out the book out which said "do not use E85". I called Ford and they said drive it at your own risk (not much help). I found out that E85 is 85% alcohol and is only recommended for flex fuel engines. So far no problems. Here is a quote from the E85 web site. Live and learn.

What happens if I accidentally fuel my gasoline-only powered vehicle with E85?


Although your vehicle was not manufactured to run on E85, no problems should occur if you mistakenly fuel once with the alternative fuel. The largest difference between an E85 powered vehicle and a gasoline powered vehicle is that their computer modules are meant to read different amounts of oxygen within the fuel. E85 contains a higher amount of oxygen than gasoline and E85 compatible vehicles are made to read that higher amount. When a higher amount of oxygen is read by a gasoline powered vehicle, your “check engine light” may appear. A number of other parts on the FFV’s fuel delivery system are modified to be ethanol-compatible. The fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel injectors, computer system and anti-siphon device have been modified slightly. Alcohol fuels can be more corrosive than gasoline. Therefore; fuel system parts have been upgraded to be ethanol-compatible.
Ultimately it is a drivers choice, but we do need to be firm in recommending that only FFVs use E85 and to state that we are not responsible for damages.

[Clifftall]

Thank you for the info. Flyer. A few years ago I filled up with 85 in Utah ( that's all this station had ). My f53 was not happy. It sputtered and pinged for 200 miles and then I added regular gas and all was fine.

[KC1BUD]

Generally speaking, one tank shouldn't hurt.

[LVJ58]

Good bit of information Thanks

[Flyer]

Gone about 1,000 miles since filling the tank with E85. No lights or problems. I have been driving at altitude and even though I expected a slight power loss (about 3% per 1,000 ft for a gasser), it felt like I had a bigger power loss. All seems OK so far.