IS THERE SUCH A THING AS OLD FUEL OR JUST POORLY STORED FUEL?

Hmmm...Interesting question.


I guess I can say that I am not old or aged, just poorly stored!


Ed S

Hi Ed

I remember you from the Pylon racing days at the funny farm. I did not race but helped out as I flew at the "farm". You also flew control line did you not? I was a member of the Max Brigade for years. I know Geoff Higgs, Dave Kelly, Kenny Parent, George Baynes and Ron Peters.

I have been mixing my fuel for years and never had a problem with so-called old fuel. I was wondering if it really existed and decided to question it on the forum. I hear that term bandied about at my present club The Flying Tigers a lot.

Brian Facey

I have used fuel that is over 3 years old with no problems. I think the key is storage and that red inner cap. If fuel is stored in the dark and in a cool place or without large temp changes and the jugs have that nice inner red cap and the outside caps are tight then you have your best shot at good fuel over long storage periods. Fuel is hygroscopic (likes moisture, attracts moisture) so if sealed from the moisture it shouldn't change. Of course I should point out I'm talking about new bottles - half empty bottles will have the potential for not being as good as long cause once you start to draw fuel it's replaced by air which has moisture in it.

I just used some Omega I had in the basement. Cool and dark, with a fuel spout on it (but sealed). No red cap. Opened about 18 months ago.

Hi Brian,

Who could forget the funny farm?

When it comes to fuel and engines be very wary of club "Experts".

Like you I mix my own fuel. I have not noticed any "Old Fuel" problems, and pylon racing is all about performance. I think I would notice any deterioration. I do keep it properly stored and stoppered.

Ed S