1990 GT

[Gman11377]

Hello, I purchased a 1990 GT, very cheaply. I have read through many, many posts here, and want to thank everyone for their contribution to a very fun, helpful site. I pulled the fuel tank and completely replaced the fuel lines, and cleaned the carbs, replaced the spark plugs, replaced the fuel filter (s), and cleaned out and reprimed the oil system. My daughter and I have been running it for 3 weekends now, and it runs beautifully. 34 mph top speed. It will need a new wear ring, but that is a winter project. My question is fairly simple. Can I use ethanol gas? I am currently avoiding it, but the price for ethanol free is very high, and my ski guzzles fuel. If I could use the cheaper gas, it would mean more riding time for us. Thanks again everyone for your time.

 

[mikidymac]

Yes you can. 87 octane standard unleaded. No reason to waste money on expensive fuel for that ski.

 

[Gman11377]

Thanks for the answer, I have seen several posts from you. They seem well reasoned, experienced, and informative.

 

[Phsgrad11]

Mikidymac is very informative and seems to know all about skis. I recommend him, hes helped me alot.

 

[mikidymac]

All our fuel here in California now is up to 15% ethanol. Never had an issue or concern.

 

[Gman11377]

Wow, how do yall even keep any of your small two-strokes running? I thought 15% would eat most of the fuel system...

 

[mikidymac]

Nope, I think that’s become a big urban legend. All the fuel lines and parts made in the last 5 years is ethanol resistant.

Not a single one of my 7 ski and 5 friends I maintain have had a single issue.

I think ethanol has become the modern scapegoat for lack of maintenance.

The new fuels do degrade quicker so I use Sta-bil in everything and throw any fuel over a year old in my work truck and put in fresh. Other than that I run them hard.