Ethanol/gasohol for older BMW's

[bbb]

Hello, this is my first post to this forum. I chose the general discussion because this may apply to all older models of BMW.

I have a 1993 318i with an M42 engine here in Thailand where the powers that be have decided to do away with 95 octane gasoline and replace it with gasohol (10% mixture).

I'm told that 1995 models can handle gasohol, but that hasn't been 100% confirmed. And if that is true, can a 95 BMW handle a 15% ethanol mixture or more? Unfortunately, I'm having a hard time getting hard facts here, partly because I don't read or speak enough Thai yet.

This fuel issue is very sad, because my low-mileage car is running great, and I was hoping to keep it going for a few more years. I really don't want to spend money on another vehicle now.

So, I have the following general questions.

Can a M42 engine be timed to run okay on 91 octane (albeit with lower performance)?. What kinds of non-alcohol additives can I use to make up for the 4 octane loss? I can buy something called Nitrox "Hot Shot" Power Boost, but I'm not sure if it is appropriate (or non-alcohol) because of the Thai labeling.

The local BMW dealer seems to think that 1995 model versions of the fuel system and engine for the 318i would not fit in my car (why not, just typical dealer policy and inflexibility?). Otherwise, I'd look around for such a replacement. Of course I could just go looking for 95 or newer model (after selling my car, it would be out at least $5 or $6k), but I'm trying to keep costs down. Replacing the engine/fuel system, even in Thailand, where labor costs are lower, may not accomplish that - but I need to know if it is possible or not just in case.

The other option I have, though I dislike it, is to put a different brand of engine in. A local garage replaces engines regularly, and I know of at least one BMW around here that runs a Toyota engine. The trick is how to deal with the fuel system (balanced gas tanks under the back seats and special tubing setups, etc). How can I replace the tubing arrangement?

Are BMW diesel engine systems available for 1993 318i’s?

Finally, while BMW says my car engine and fuel system will deteriorate with gasohol, I wonder how quickly, and if replacing certain parts (again, labor being less here) regularly might be a solution.

BTW, this if the first BMW I've owned. I bought it in early 2004, because it was the best car available for the money in my area. It's in great shape after many repairs and, as we know, fun to drive. If I have to sell it and buy something else, finances will probably push me to an old diesel Merc or something that burns 91. That's why I'm trying to find a solution that'll allow me to run it for a few more years.

Thanks for reading and sharing your knowledge.

 

[Kirby]

From what I know, the primary problem with gasohol in older cars is that the rubber and soft plastic parts of the fuel system will deteriorate. I think the running/operation of the engine itself is not much of a concern, you'll have some performance loss but the engine should run fine. I have read that it can be as "simple" as just replacing all of the hoses with gasohol safe material.

 

[Big Daddy]

I found this researching your subject:

"BMW happy with ethanol testing

Apparently BMW Thailand has been involved with the Thailand Automotive Institute testing Gasohol (a mixture of gasoline and alcohol) in the 3 series cars. It was found that the added ethanol in the petrol did not reduce the performance of the cars (318iA and 323iA) in any way and even more importantly the mixture did not damage engines, fuel hoses or anything else.

Ethanol, which can be produced from non oil resources such as sugar cane, for example, will help in preserving supplies of the non-renewable energy sources such as petroleum. Karsten Engel, the president of BMW Thailand is reported as saying that Gasohol will be a significant step towards reducing emission and the cost of importing gasoline, and increase the quality of life for the Thai people. That alcohol is good for us all will come as great news for the lads at Shenanigans!

Returning to the effects on fuel hoses and the like, I once managed to get my hands on a “left over” 44 gallon drum of Formula 1 race fuel after the Australian Grand Prix a few years back. At that stage I was racing a production car, where we were not allowed to alter the mechanical specifications in any way. Formula 1 jungle juice looked like a good way to steal a march on the rest of the flock. It wasn’t. The stuff ate the fuel lines and clogged the carburettor full of molten plastic!"

Pattaya Mail Letters

 

[bbb]

Thanks, Big Daddy,

I wonder what model year they are referring to though. I've heard that they have tested some years, but apparently not mine.

I'm trying to find out how much difference there can be between a '93 E36 and a '95 or '96 in this regard (fuel lines, gaskets, anything vulnerable).

I can understand and respect the company saying they haven't tested something, but it's tough hearing "no, it won't work" if they haven't tested it. And that's what I've been hearing so far from my upcountry dealer and from a Bangkok dealer as well (maybe they think they'll get me to buy a new car... <insert empty pocket smiley here>).

I recently had the dealer replace the tubing that connects the two gas tanks because the old setup was leaking. Hopefully it's a standard E36 part made from what has been tested to work with gasohol! At least I'm part way there, if replacement of parts is necessary.

So, thanks for the feedback. It's good to hear some good news.

 

[newguy]

I have a '92 325i that has a conforti chip in it. I run almost exclusively Sunoco Ultra 94 octane in it. All Sunoco gasoline produced for Canadian use has between 5 and 10% ethanol content and has had for years. I have NEVER had any issues with sensors, hoses, or filters..the performance is terrific, and mileage is not bad at all...hope this helps

 

[nadroj]

in texas all gas has 10% ethanol so i really have no choose

 

[bbb]

Hi folks,

My local BMW dealer got a response back to an email sent to techs in Bangkok. They came back with warnings that pre-95 cars would suffer corrosion etc., from the alcohol - the gas tank and fuel lines were mentioned explicitly which could lead to fuel injector problems.

In response to the fact that many older cars in the US run ethanol, they said that it's usually not exclusive use - that is, gasohol would be used in winter time mainly - the point being the exclusive use of gasohol would be more destructive than periodic or temporary usage.

I've heard that some additives can be used which might counteract the effects. Any and all suggestions along this line would be appreciated. Who knows, one of them might be available where I live.

It sounds like it might be no big deal to burn 10%, but an additive would be a good piece of insurance in the face of no alternative!