There's no need to consult the manufacturer of most vintage cars as they are pretty simple on the fuel front.

My three wheeler has a steel tank, bad news - but you can get tank sealant that is ethanol proof. Bit of a pain taking it out, but no need to rush into it, leave it for later when the engine needs to move for a another reason.

Then the taps are brass and most of the fuel lines are copper. Not really a problem at 5, 10 or even 15% ethanol although the scare stories would have you believe it is.

Then there is a short length of rubber fuel hose as a flexible connection between the body mounted lines and the carburettor. Hopefully that is synthetic rubber based, but if ethanol does attack it, changing the hose is a five minute job.

Most of the gaskets and seals in the Amal 289 carburettor are cardboard types so should be ok, but again, this carburettor is a very common type, with easily available spares so getting a new part is very easy. And being a very simple device, easy and quick to change all the seals and gaskets (I did it circa 2001 as a precaution).

If you think I've left out the fuel pump, I haven't, gravity is not affected by alcohol but a few drinkers on Friday nights may offer evidence to the contrary!


1930 Super Sports Aero 'The Elk'