Classic cars using new E10 fuel are 'at risk' when being stored this winter
CLASSIC cars running on the new E10 fuel compound could be at "risk" of suffering damage over Christmas.
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Eric Collins, owner of Classic Car Mechanic Ltd said it would “take a while” for historic cars to be damaged if they are filled with the new petrol but it could be an issue for some drivers this year. He has urged road users to look into using additives with the new fuel to minimise any possible damages.
He said drivers could also consider draining their fuel tank under some circumstances.
When asked whether leaving E10 fuel in a tank could lead to issues and damage to vehicles over Christmas, Mr Collins replied it could be an issue.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, he said: “It would take a while. But yes I mean it is a risk.
“I think it is then worth putting some of these stabiliser additives in with it, particularly if it is being stood for a while.
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“Potentially, depending on how long it's in there for, it’s probably worth draining the fuel and putting fresh in when you come to use it again.
“But it's not a good idea to leave it empty as that is also a problem.
“That would probably be my advice.
“If it's three or four months put an additive in and it will probably be ok.
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“It probably would be ok as it stabilises it.
“If it's longer, six months, it's worth draining the fuel and putting fresh in.
“Still using the additive but drain the fuel and put fresh in before using it.”
The warning comes weeks after the Historic and Classic Vehicle Alliance (HCVA) urged drivers against using E10 when storing a vehicle this winter.
Malcolm Mckay, spokesperson for the HCVA said drivers should use “ethanol-free fuel” or E5 with an additive before putting it in a garage for Christmas.
He said: “Corrosion will take place inside a half-empty steel fuel tank whatever the fuel used if left standing for months in a humid atmosphere.
“If you routinely store your vehicle for long periods such as over winter, fit a fuel tap between the fuel tank and the pump (if one is not already fitted).
“When storing the vehicle, run it with the tap switched off until all fuel in the carburettors and pump is used up."
Nigel Elliott, fuel specialist at the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) also urged drivers to take precautions when storing a car.
He said drivers should “keep the tank at least two-thirds full” but to never leave a car fully topped up.
He added: “The danger is on a completely full tank, when you come to start the vehicle you've lost some of the lighter ends of the fuel.
“They have evaporated and you will have some trouble getting the vehicle going.
“It's always handy to leave a bit of space in the tank you can splash in a bit of new fuel to increase the volatility.”