Re: [MV] Petrol and Diesel Storage capabilities

David C. Barbieri (barbiedc@maadmin.marshall.tstc.edu)
Fri, 16 Apr 1999 07:09:42 CST

Hi Dave -

As you've noticed, diesel fuel is pretty stable stuff when it comes to shelf
life. Being less volatile than gasoline, it doesn't break down quickly. The
big problem with long-term diesel storage is algae. This stuff _loves_
diesel fuel, and will happily grow large colonies in your tank/barrel/whatever.
Imagine trying to run soupy Malt-O-Meal throu your filters! 8-( To keep
these little guys from ruining your supply, add an algicide to your fuel.
Stanadyne makes some good stuff; you can find it at any fuel injection
shop or truck stop. Keeping the algae and bacteria out of your tank will
save your filters and your pump!

>Stabil says that their stuff can extend shelf life up to 14 months, I'd
>guess you could go up to about 2 years in a closed container with Stabil
>added.

I'd be _very_ conservative about gasoline shelf life. Gasoline loses
its edge very quickly; this is one of the major headaches that dealerships
face with long term storage of new cars. After sitting in the back lot
for several months, the gasoline in the tank has changed composition,
and getting that new car successfully smog-tested becomes a nightmare
for the 'make-ready' guys! With Stabil added to fresh gasoline, I'd count
on a one-year storage life - max. My .02 ;-D

Dave Barbieri

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