BEFORE MOWING
Oxygenated Fuels
Some conventional gasolines are being blended with alcohol or
an ether compound. These gasolines are collectively referred to
as oxygenated fuels. Some areas of the United States and
Canada use oxygenated fuels to help reduce emissions.
If you use an oxygenated fuel, be sure it is unleaded and meets
the minimum octane rating requirement.
Before using an oxygenated fuel, try to confirm the fuel’s
contents. Some states/provinces require this information to be
posted on the pump.
The following are the EPA approved percentages of oxygenates:
ETHANOL (ethyl or grain alcohol) 10% by volume
You may use gasoline containing up to 10% ethanol by
volume. Gasoline containing ethanol may be marketed under
the name “Gasohol”.
MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether) 15% by volume
You may use gasoline containing up to 15% MTBE by volume.
METHANOL (methyl or wood alcohol) 5%
You may use gasoline containing up to 5% methanol by
volume, as long as it also contains cosolvents and corrosion
inhibitors to protect the fuel system. Gasoline containing more
than 5% methanol by volume may cause starting and/or
performance problems. It may also damage metal, rubber, and
plastic parts of your fuel system.
If you notice any undesirable operating symptoms, try another
service station, or switch to another brand of gasoline.
Fuel system damage or performance problems resulting from the
use of an oxygenated fuel containing more than the percentages
of oxygenates mentioned above are not covered under warranty.
25