E85 and can you use it ??

Yes citizens, it's time for us to pretend that global warming does exist and pretend that we are going to do something about it. When in reality, if it does exist, I doubt we can do anything no matter what fuel we use. However, to pacify the tree huggers and other alarmists out there, lets buy a tank of E85 the next time we fill up to make ourselves feel better about ourselves; or at least to shut the global warming gang up for the time being.

Here's the deal. If you drive a 1988 or older vehicle I don't recommend using E85 unless you alternate on every fill up. Then again, if you have an 88 or older vehicle, how worried can you be about "possible" engine damage with long term use ? 1989 models and newer knock yourselves out. However, there is a drawback. Unless you have an FFV/E85 compatible vehicle you can expect to lose anywhere from 25%-33% in fuel economy. As I see it that pretty much evens out the savings you received at the pump for using it over regular petroleum. True, it might cost 1/3rd less but you get 1/3rd less miles per gallon. The exception being turbo-charged vehicles. They do quite well on E85 as it has a higher octane rating than is normally available with gasoline. Any change in mpg should be slight enough that it is not noticeable.

Aside from the loss in fuel economy the only thing you are likely to notice with a post 1988 non E85 vehicle is that the check engine light may come on when using it. This is caused by an increased oxygen level in the fuel mix as a result of the ethanol. Essentially this is the reason why you will use more fuel. What this does as far as emissions are concerned, well, there numerous theories about it. None of which I find to be conclusive.