Maintaining Gas Mileage with E85

 

E85 contains less energy per gallon than gas.  Due to this fact it was common during early usage to see reductions in gas mileage of 5%-20% depending on the vehicle and driving habits of the owner. 

We now know the reasons for the wide range of the loss of gas mileage and more importantly how to prevent it.  Early converts cataloged and reported their experiences and those who were able to prevent any loss in miles per gallon had 5 things in common.

They are:

  1. Install top quality spark plugs.  E85 burns cooler in the engine than gasoline and therefore needs a good spark to ignite each molecule of fuel.  Upgrading to the highest quality spark plug will increase your fuel efficiently by 4-5%.  We recommend a plug such as the NGK Laser Platinum Premium; no plug on the market ignites E85 better.
  2. Install a high flow air filter.   Air filters differ greatly in their composition.  Most are comprised of multiple layers of paper fibers bound together to prevent dust and particles from entering the engine.  These multiple layers also constrict the air flow into the engine to ignite with the fuel.  A better solution is to install a high flow air filter comprised of very thin layers of cotton gauze, the kind used in hospitals, to allow increased air flow while capturing the same dust and particles.  Look for a filter that is rated at least 98% efficient, such as the K&N High Air Flow Filter.  Increase in fuel efficiency; 5-6%.
  3. Change the fuel filter.   After converting the vehicle, E85 will displace the sludge left behind from regular gasoline and it will lodge in the fuel filter.  After the converted vehicle has run approximately 500 miles, replace the fuel filter.  No special upgrade in filter quality has been reported as necessary.  Increase in fuel efficiency; 5-6%.
  4. Use top quality synthetic oil or EthanOil.  The more friction in the engine the less efficient it will run and the lower the gas mileage.  Use high quality synthetic oil and our patented blend of EthanOil at the time of the conversion.  Increase in fuel efficiency; 4-5%.
  5. Ensure tires are properly inflated.  Increased fuel efficiency; 2-3%

The combined effects of these 5 steps has repeatedly demonstrated no reduction in gas mileage; making the lower price you pay at the pump for E85 go even further.