Honda Petrol Engines can have problems caused by Stale Fuel which can easily be avoided by following some simple tips. Take a look at Honda's guidance for fuel including the new E10 now available.
WHICH KIND OF PETROL SHOULD YOU USE?
• Regular unleaded 98, 95, 95 E5 or E10 can be used in Honda products (E5 or E10 contains 5% or 10% ethanol).
• Do not use any petrol containing more than 10% ethanol. This will cause corrosion damage to fuel system components.
• Honda does not anticipate any negative effects from the use of Alkylate type petrol. However, due to the availability of different Alkylate fuels, no recommendation for their use can be provided at this time. Please refer to the instructions and data sheet provided by the Alkylate manufacturer for more information.
• If your Honda product is used intermittently (eg more than 4 weeks between each use) use petrol treated with fuel stabiliser, at the time of purchase. > Honda fuel stabiliser has a shelf-life and its performance will deteriorate over time. Once the bottle is opened, it has a maximum life of 2 years. > Fuel stabiliser will not reconstitute or reinvigorate stale petrol. It must be added when the petrol is fresh.
HOW SHOULD PETROL BE STORED?
• Petrol will start to deteriorate if stored for more than 1 month.
• Add Honda fuel stabiliser to fresh petrol which is likely to be stored for more than 1 month.
• Only use clean, sealed, approved fuel containers, designed to specifically carry or store petrol.
• If petrol is stored in a steel container (eg a jerrycan) make sure there is no corrosion on the inside of the container.
• Store petrol in a cool place away from direct sunlight
MAINTENANCE OF YOUR PRODUCT.
• If your Honda product will be used intermittently (eg more than 4 weeks between each use) use petrol which has been treated with fuel stabiliser, when fresh.
• Turn the fuel tap off, when the machine is not being used. • Before use, check the engine oil level is correct and ensure the air filter is clean.
• Before winter storage: Drain the petrol from the carburettor and fuel tank (refer to owner’s manual for correct procedure). OR > Add fuel stabiliser, which will extend the storage life of the petrol remaining in the fuel tank and carburettor. Fill the fuel tank to the recommended maximum level, using treated petrol. Run the engine for at least 5 minutes to allow treated petrol to enter the carburettor, prior to storage