Date: Tue, 04 Jul 2006 21:10:53 GMT From: Paul Halliday <pjghnospamyonder.co.uk> Subject: Re: ethanol conversion query
in article slrnealh1t.cj6.rotten_NOSPAM_nospamam.example.com, John B at rotten_NOSPAM_nospam.org wrote on 04/07/2006 19:43: > On Tue, 04 Jul 2006 19:15:04 GMT, Paul Halliday <pjghnospamyonder.co.uk> wrote: >> >> Existing fuel lines will be corroded by an ethanol mix of greater than about >> 10% to petrol. >> > > Ok, that's a problem. Running new fuel lines would be a bit of a pain, but is > obviously very possible. What about the fuel tank, though? > >>> The fuel pump may contain internal seals or other parts that dissolve in >>> ethanol. Probably not an impossible obstacle though. >> >> ... As above ... >> > > Is it likely that a more modern (and ethanol-compatible) fuel tank could be > found which would fit into the existing fuel pump setup? I would think if it is a concern, then it should be replaced. The last thing you want is a fuel leak ... They always happen at times when you are unable to contain them :( I'm sure a replacement could be procured for a reasonable amount. It might be that a lightweight metal tank could be fitted into the boot/trunk. I'm sure a motorsport tank and pump must exist for cars running "funny fuel". Follow up to the front with a new fuel line from the same setup. Again, I think a suitable FPR and rings, grommets and what-not can be had for this setup. If I find something useful in my plethora of motorsport catalogues, I'll post up the details. >> I'm led to believe that 10% ethanol from the pump is already commonplace >> across the US (and elsewhere?), so there is a fair chance you're already >> running it. Older pre-ECU C900s are probably okay just knocking the timing > > Yep, I'm in the US, and we are indeed running 10% ethanol. E85 is available, > though not widely so. > >> back to the C900 T16 ... Are you thinking Bosch or Lucas FI system? >> > > Aren't all T16s Bosch? Sorry - I wasn't sure at first where you hail from. You guys didn't get the LPT C900. That was a Lucas controlled light pressure turbo model, rated to 145 BHP and no intercooler. I tend to overlook the normally aspirated 16V cars (again, did you guys get those?) which I think are Bosch controlled. Have a look at http://www.saab900.com/ - You'll find some information (and necessary programs) for re-programming the Bosch ECU. If you're going that far, it might well be the time to retro-fit a nice 2.3 head and DI system. The 1988 9000 CD is the most suitable donor car. Take a look at the DI article under 'DIY' on the 900 Aero website or at this thread from David Fisher (sadly, no longer with us) on UK SAABs: <http://www.uknospam/viewtopic.php?t=1529> Re-timing/programming DI is going to be a lot easier than the stock distributor setup. >> I think you're already ahead of us here ... I'll watch with interest; other >> may have direct experience. >> > > Well, I certainly want to give it a try if the consensus is favorable. Selling > the wife on a 3rd Saab might be the trickiest part :) Just tell her it's for spares :) So long as she sees the petrol tank come off, a lot of pipes ripped out and the head come off she might believe you ... Paul 1989 900 Turbo S http://saab.go.dyndns.org/
