"Alcohol" is a general descriptor of a chemical class, not any particular
molecule. Dragsters used methanol (a 1-carbon alcohol), and biofuels are
normally ethanol (2-carbon). These alcohols have the advantage of high
octane ratings, and racers liked the detonation resistance fershure. I'm
not sure how much "fuel" is methanol anymore -- others can probably update
us there.
>From Wikipedia:
One liter of ethanol contain 21.1 MJ, a liter of methanol 15.8 MJ and a
liter of gasoline approximately 32.6 MJ. In other words, for the same
energy content as one liter or one gallon of gasoline, one needs 1.6
liters/gallons of ethanol and 2.1 liters/gallons of methanol.
The one to watch is butanol -- the 4-carbon alcohol. This one has energy
density similar to gasoline and easier storage/transport. The biofuels
guys are working now on conventional or enzymatic cracking techniques to
take ethanol to butanol.
Don
On Wed, Jun 12, 2013 at 10:03 AM, Bob Labuz <yellowtr@adelphia.net> wrote:
> The only engine I have trouble starting in the spring is the roto-tiller.
> I have to remove the air filter and spray gas in order to get it started. I
> then run it on 1/2 choke for about 5 minutes. Then it does run but sounds
> lean. One of these days I will have to remove the carb and clean it out.
>
> The mower, snowblower and power washer seem to be fine.
>
> I use stable in every engine when in storage.
>
> Starting 2 years ago, I started running alcohol free gas in all 3
> Triumphs. I hope it stays available.
>
> No problems starting or running in the spring after at least a 6 month nap.
>
> Stabil is also used in the cars.
>
> The problem I have heard about alcohol is it will cause problems with the
> engine internal alloy parts.
>
> Not sure what is true.
>
> Another thing I have heard is that alcohol does not pack as much punch as
> gas. But if that is so, why do some dragsters use 100% alcohol?
>
> Bob
>
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