Oxygenated Fuels and Additives

Sulfur Content

The sulfur content in fuel is also regulated to a certain standard. Premium grades of fuel generally have a lower sulfur content than the less expensive blends. A high sulfur content can promote the formation of acidic compounds that could deteriorate engine oil and increase engine wear. It could also produce excessive exhaust emissions or a rotten egg smell from the exhaust system.

Oxygenated Fuels and Alcohol Content

Notice: Do not use fuels containing methanol in order to prevent damage and corrosion to the fuel system.

Methanol can corrode metal parts in the fuel system, and can also damage plastic and rubber parts.

Oxygenated fuels contain oxygen in their chemical structure. The advantages that oxygenated fuels offer are improved octane quality, better combustion, and reduced carbon monoxide emissions. To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in the engine and fuel system. Therefore, nothing should be added to the fuel. The most commonly used oxygenated fuels are ethanol (grain alcohol) and MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether).