98' Disco and ethanol

[vgoodness]

I want to do my part for the environment, but love my Disco, Can I use ethanol fuel? I was told anything newer then a 97 is safe without conversion. But I really don't have a clue what is safe for my car. Any factoids out there?
Thanks
Val

 

[joey]

It may be safe, but keep in mind that your '98 Disco has a 1960's era 215ci Buick engine that has had some work done and an ECU installed, but it is still the same engine. So I personally would not run ethanol in it. That is not to say that it wouldn't run and run great, or that someone has run it and had no issues. Of course I also know people who have nothing but issues with their Rover and haven't done any off roading nor have they done anything that would be hard or abusive let alone run anything but 92 octane. So take all that with a grain of salt and flip a coin and keep good records and try it...

 

[Mark]

If you want to do something for the environment buy a new ethanol-capable car.

In the meantime just keep your rover in top-notch condition.

Per the owners manual - Rovers can take up to 10% ethanol mixed with unleaded fuel. Anything beyond that 10% and you are asking for problems. Ethanol is corrosive to the older engines and seals and I would not recommend anything other than good ol' premium fuel.

The next suggestion is to maintain the rover by replacing some/all of the emission components when they fail or just for the heck of it, before they fail.

That is the best way to be a good steward of the environment without ruining a good vehicle.

 

[Jaak]

Ethanol (10%) in the pump gas may be better for the environment, but, your gas mileage will be reduced. This negates any advantages as you will need to burn more fuel to go the same distance. If you are going for a smog test ... then run a tank or two before and make sure it's in the tank when running the test.