Hey Guys:
Just thought I would pass on some useful information. I use non-ethanol gas whenever possible in ALL my cars, not just the old ones. Most non-ethanol gas stations in most areas are oil company locations (heating oil, kerosene, etc.) or rural stations with the older style gas pumps that don't take credit cards. As a rule, these pumps run slow and you can hear their motors running when you pump fuel. HOWEVER, if you ever encounter a pump that is running very slowly, stop pumping immediately! This is a sign that the gas may be contaminated with water that has seeped into the underground tank. Just like your car's fuel pump can't maintain pressure with water in the lines, neither can the motor pumping the gas into your tank. Let the attendant know the pump is struggling.


Don't take the chance, it is better to be safe than be sorry afterward. If you are using this gas in a newer vehicle with a high-pressure fuel pump atop engine, it can be even more devastating. Don't ask....


Frank
Troy, VA

 

In Oklahoma we have to montitor our gas tanks for leaks and water. This can be done manually or with the aid of monitoring wells. The pumping system must show and hold pressure before the pumps will turn on. On older facilities like the ones you mentioned pulling the trigger too quick on the handle can actually simulate a leak and cause the system to trickle. This at times can be fixed by just releasing the handle and let the "check" happen and then it will start pumping correctly. Sometimes it takes shutting it off and waiting a moment before pulling the trigger.. Also can be what you suggested.

 

We used to have to stick the tanks with a long measuring stick and litmus paste to see how many inches of water was in the tank. At specific heights the water needed to be pumped out. As water is heavier than gas, it was always on the bottom.

 

If the fuel system is equipped with a submersible turbine pump it is equipped with a line leak detector. If the LLD is mechanical and detects a leak if will slow the flow to all dispensers. If it is an electrical LLD it will shut the system down completely. Fuel station pumps are capable of pumping water or gasoline. If water is present in the fuel system, depending on the type of filter installed on the dispenser, the filter may be causing the low flow, not the pump.