E85?

[revobasher]

Just curious if anyone is running E85? I always have on my previous cars which were all 4 cyl turbo. But I am not sure what if any the popularity is with the LSA. Should also note I just installed the JDP850 package so I am on the fence on which tune to get and any additional parts that might be needed. I would think only fuel pump setup since I already have ID1000 injectors.

[2013 ZL1 #7860]

I have done a lot of research on this for my ZL1.

Look up DSX Tuning (Dave Steck) for the best Flex Fuel E85 setup around (And he pioneered the flex fuel mod on non flex fuel vehicles). IMO
Also, this forum may not be the best source for this topic but "other" forums are full of good info.

I also see that Ted Jannety has done some E85 high HP builds and tunes as have many of the reputable vendors on this site.

You will need to address the fuel supply and everybody has recommended Squash.

Hope that helps some. Let us know what you find out.

[Deke736]

Originally Posted by 2013 ZL1 #7860

I have done a lot of research on this for my ZL1.

Look up DSX Tuning (Dave Steck) for the best Flex Fuel E85 setup around (And he pioneered the flex fuel mod on non flex fuel vehicles). IMO
Also, this forum may not be the best source for this topic but "other" forums are full of good info.

I also see that Ted Jannety has done some E85 high HP builds and tunes as have many of the reputable vendors on this site.

You will need to address the fuel supply and everybody has recommended Squash.

Hope that helps some. Let us know what you find out.

I agree 100%! The DSX and Squash setup is what I'll be doing soon. Dave is local to me and we have talked in detail about this conversion and I will be going this route at some point in the near future. The nice thing about Dave's sensor is that he truly creates a Flex-Fuel system vs being limited to E85 or gas. I'll be able to run E85 for the track and 93 on the street.

[revobasher]

Thx man! I reached out to him to get more details.. I guess my only other concern is would I be yet reaching the limits of the LSA bottom end and auto trans?

[revobasher]

Originally Posted by Deke736

I agree 100%! The DSX and Squash setup is what I'll be doing soon. Dave is local to me and we have talked in detail about this conversion and I will be going this route at some point in the near future. The nice thing about Dave's sensor is that he truly creates a Flex-Fuel system vs being limited to E85 or gas. I'll be able to run E85 for the track and 93 on the street.

Cool. I would be fine with running just E85 not a E85\Pump hybrid setup since my ZL1 is not my daily driver and here in MN there is plenty of E85 to be had. Did he say what kind of gains can be had? I know that really depends on the car of course though.

[2013 ZL1 #7860]

Good luck and let us know what you find out!

[Trickskier]

My question is why would you want to run a lower octane fuel?

[bannonm]

Originally Posted by Trickskier

My question is why would you want to run a lower octane fuel?

E85 is between 94-96 octane as confirmed by an actual-octane engine. Some claim it's over a 100 but apparently that's an improper calculation. Regardless it's higher than premium pump gas.

[2013 ZL1 #7860]

Originally Posted by Trickskier

My question is why would you want to run a lower octane fuel?

http://www.hotrod.com/how-to/engine/...ernative-fuel/

Old article but it will cover the basics for those who don't know.

[DDoug]

Originally Posted by 2013 ZL1 #7860

LOL

Originally Posted by Trickskier

My question is why would you want to run a lower octane fuel?

Somebody needs to do a little research ...

[paulik87]

xD

He isn't talking about 85 octane pump gas bruh.

[Trickskier]

Originally Posted by Trickskier

My question is why would you want to run a lower octane fuel?

Originally Posted by 2013 ZL1 #7860

Originally Posted by DDoug

LOL



Somebody needs to do a little research ...

OK - So I should have done some research before I asked my question. But the fact is and my point was that E85 isn't as efficient premium unleaded gas. Geez - Ask a question and get crucified!!!

Does an E85 vehicle obtain more or less miles per gallon?

Ethanol has less energy content than gasoline. However, E85 also has a much higher octane (typically in the 96-98 range) than gasoline. FFVs are not optimized for E85 and therefore experience a 15-20% drop in fuel economy. The actual amount varies tremendously between vehicle models and drivers.

[paulik87]

Everyone I know who uses e85 uses it for more power, not fuel efficiency. Never tried it myself though unfortunately we don't have any stations in Washington :(

[2013 ZL1 #7860]

Originally Posted by Trickskier

OK - So I should have done some research before I asked my question. But the fact is and my point was that E85 isn't as efficient premium unleaded gas. Geez - Ask a question and get crucified!!!

Does an E85 vehicle obtain more or less miles per gallon?

Ethanol has less energy content than gasoline. However, E85 also has a much higher octane (typically in the 96-98 range) than gasoline. FFVs are not optimized for E85 and therefore experience a 15-20% drop in fuel economy. The actual amount varies tremendously between vehicle models and drivers.

Did you see my Link I posted? Its a good beginners read and it directly answers your question...

The only reason to consider E85 in a performance discussion is for more power and cooler, more efficient combustion. MPG is nearly irrelevant and does not belong in this conversation. This is not the Aveo Forum.

In my area where E85 is everywhere, nearly everybody at the strip is using it. Including N/A SBC and BBC race cars with carbs. It IS the fuel of choice for most Forced Induction Street/Strip setups up here and it happens to be cheap.

Now with Flex Fuel Sensor conversions, the issue of varying mixtures and use of 91 octane with the same tune has been addressed. The downsides performance wise are minimal if it is available to you. Its really appealing to be able to run a bunch of different fuels even if you never do. The fact that you could is comforting, especially when travelling.

Last time I checked my ZL1 was about the worst thing I have ever owned for gas mileage and that is one of the things I love about it.

And before anybody says it: Replacing the fuel system, injectors and tuning for E85 obviously voids the warranty and somebody who is considering this doesn't care...