Oil & Fuel Fuel Treatments Year 'Round?
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sunnyside360
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I couldn't disagree more. Have you've ever had diesel fuel gel in cold weather? I've learned the hard way it pays to put gasoline stabilizer in boats, motorcycles, saws, lawn mowers, string trimmers, snow blowers, and other gasoline engines that are seasonal. I also use anti-gel/fuel treatment in diesel engines year round after having problems in very cold weather (may not be needed in southern states).
maybe just my opinion, but I do like the additives for the diesel at least when it gets cold, which it is now 
and do use the Sta-bil in some of my gas engine accessories. I usually drain gas in the Winter but had a problem with my rototiller where when I drained the gas the first year I had it the fuel line dried up and cracked. it seems to like staying wet. but I do drain the chain saw, wood splitter and power washer. never heard of the Sea Foam, can someone elaborate and also where do you get it. Perhaps I just never noticed it.
and do use the Sta-bil in some of my gas engine accessories. I usually drain gas in the Winter but had a problem with my rototiller where when I drained the gas the first year I had it the fuel line dried up and cracked. it seems to like staying wet. but I do drain the chain saw, wood splitter and power washer. never heard of the Sea Foam, can someone elaborate and also where do you get it. Perhaps I just never noticed it.I was using Stabil in my gas cans before. Then I called a couple of the gas companies, Shell, Exxon...etc. with some questions about octane and in the conversation they told me that they already put fuel stabilizer in their fuel and there is no need to add any. I live in Canada and maybe because of the cold winters and condensation problems, they have little choice. Their refining process may vary in different parts of Canada and the US. I stopped adding the Stabil about 4 years ago and haven't had any problems yet. You might want to call your local refiners to see what the deal is in your area.
DieselnHooters
Platinum Member
I am in Canada also (Quebec) and yes the gas companies do add stabilizer/anti-gelling agent in their winter fuel.
They also add a blueish colorant to it so you can tell the difference, they make the switch from summer to winter fuel sometimes in november.
I still add some myself just to make sure...cant hurt, it gets so frikkin cold up here...I also pour an ounce or 2 of oil to grease the pump.
OP
bp fick
Super Member
Almost think this post is mere bait, but anyhow, nope.
Gas turns into varnish in carb bowls and gas tanks of all small appliances. Engine manufacturers and techs from B&S to Mercury Marine all recommend proper care before long storage. When one adds the hideous effects of ethanol to stored gas, especially in the Marine environment, and it is easy to see why Sta-Bil is a must. When spring comes and I have work to do, I want those appliances (blowers, weed whippers, push mowers, etc) to start and I refuse to pull my guts out fussing with them. That is no fun.
And when I launch that boat, it darn embarrassing for that sucker not to start on the first or second pull when there is a dozen other guys backed up with their trailers wanting to get on the water.
When its -10 and there's a foot of snow to clear, I need that Kubota to start, not sit there with a tank full of Jello for diesel.
Do what you wish. It's a free country. It's your equipment. I shall use Sta-Bil as I have for years. I shall use diesel treatment as well. Shoot, anti-freeze for the radiator is probably just a gimmick too.
OP
bp fick
Super Member
Sure, the companies do this indeed!!! No debate. But sometimes, no make that often, my appliances have SUMMER mix in them when they get laid up in late summer. Ditto my tractor. I am quite likely to still have summer diesel mix in my can or in my tank.
I noticed the "stickers" on the pumps today. Yup, they have switched to their winter blends already. I actually dislike the winter blend in my on the road vehicles because it seems "lighter" and my mileage sinks by a mile or two to the gallon.
DWCox
Silver Member
Many auto parts stores have it. I think Napa, PepBoys, et al. The place that introduced it to me actually has all their mechanics use it rather than standard carb cleaner. If you have ever cleaned varnish out of a carb and its jets, you will really appreciate it. It has actually been around since the 60's and was used a lot on outboard motors back in those days.
whistlepig
Elite Member
Once you scrape varnish out of your carb you may think otherwise. I have done this. Not a big deal on a Saturday morning before you mow the grass and you have all day to fix it. When it's ten degrees, dark, wind blowing, no lights, power is out, no heat, and the carb on your generator is gummed up is why we buy stabilizer. No thank you. I'll waste my money on the stabilizer.
Cat_Driver
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I had way too many problems with leaving fuel in small engines. LAted was a nice generator the fuel ate away at rubber seals, a small screen inthe fuel system etc.
Finally the best solution for me is to put enough fuel to do the job and tehn run it out fo suck it out with a turkey baster then start it till it runs dry.
Next time I use it fill it with fresh fuel and I'm good to go.
I had a Kubota sit for almost 10 years till the weeds almost consumed it. Filled up the tires, put in a a new battery and it firer right up. Never treated the fuel. Stunned me.
Finally the best solution for me is to put enough fuel to do the job and tehn run it out fo suck it out with a turkey baster then start it till it runs dry.
Next time I use it fill it with fresh fuel and I'm good to go.
I had a Kubota sit for almost 10 years till the weeds almost consumed it. Filled up the tires, put in a a new battery and it firer right up. Never treated the fuel. Stunned me.