A new law effective July 1, 2008, requires gas stations statewide to disclose the amount of Ethanol used in blended gasoline by posting stickers on their pumps.
A number of stores have 10 percent ethanol signs on each pump since they sell E-10 blended gasoline. A statement in Love’s Ethanol pamphlet made by Renewable Fuels Association, reads “there is a two percent drop in energy content, or gas mileage, with E-10”.
“I think it is ridiculous. We have had several complaints about lawnmowers and small engines being torn up,” an anonymous Sinclair employee said about their gasoline.
Firelake C Store displays signs on their pumps reading “Our Fuel Contains: NO ALCOHOL.” The signs also warn customers of the possible danger of using blended gasoline. These statements include: deteriorates rubber, aluminum and plastic and lowers miles per gallon.
“We’ve seen too many problems recently with the Ethanol in gasoline,” said Michael Garr, manager of Advanced Auto Parts in Shawnee. “I don’t think it’s a good idea”.
Several local gasoline customers said they are worried about E-10 in their cars and weed eaters, also.
“It doesn’t mix well with the gasoline and the oil in my weed eater, and I’m afraid it will burn up the motor,” said Patrick O’Connor, while filling up a plastic jug for his lawnmower at Firelake C Store.
Others were not so concerned about the Ethanol blended gasoline, but with the climbing prices at the pump.
Sinclair customer, Ted Martin said he doesn’t care what they put in it if it’s going to help improve gas prices, but that hasn’t happened yet.
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