The Environmental Protection Agency will be deciding whether to allow ethanol to be increased in gasoline sold in the United States to 15 percent (E-15).
When ethanol 10 percent (E-10) was introduced, older boats with fiberglass tanks experienced problems with the glues breaking down and with clogged fuel filters and carburetors.
E-10 also breaks down much faster than plain gasoline. Motorboats have large tanks and are not turned over as fast as the automobiles’ smaller tanks. Many boaters (including myself) use an ethanol treatment to keep the ethanol from separating (it begins within 6 weeks) and to prevent rust and corrosion. It cost me about $12 to treat each tankful.
The National Marine Manufacturers Association, which represents makers of boats, marine engines and generators, and its allies in small gas-powered motor manufacturing have long encouraged the EPA to thoroughly test all engines, fuel systems and components to demonstrate that higher ethanol blends will not present problems and safety issues.
The first marine tests are being conducted now but will not be completed before the EPA makes a decision on E-15. Higher concentration of ethanol can cause performance problems, increased water absorption, phase separation, fuel tank corrosion and fuel line and tank leaks. It could also cause smog forming particles and damage to valves, push rods, rubber fuel lines and gaskets. Many boaters have experienced problems with E-10 and surely the problems will only increase with E-15.
All boaters — and non-boaters — are encouraged to write President Obama and your elected federal officials to encourage them to say no to untested E-15.
For more information go to WWW.FollowtheScience.org or contact the NMMA at 202-737-9774 or e-mail at email@example.com.
Flotilla 14-04 of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a boating safety class on Nov. 11, 16 and 18 from 7:30-10:30 p.m. at the Prince’s Bay Boatman’s Association. These will be the last classes of the year.
This three-day certificate course will teach participants the basics for boating and operating a personal water craft. This course is mandatory for all PWC operators and for boating in N.J. waters.
Call Mike Garone at 718-979-5173 or e-mail him at firstname.lastname@example.org.
Registration will take place at the Boatmen’s club (175 Johnston Terrace) on Oct. 12 at 7 p.m.