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View Full Version : An Overlooked (& Desirable) Problem w/Plug-in Hybrids


Chuck
10-05-2006, 09:46 AM
Within 2-3 years, Toyota will sell plug-in hybrids. For Prius owners that can't wait, they can invest 5-10K for a 3rd-party upgrade.

I've never left my car sitting for months, so this problem is unfamiliar (maybe not so to those of you out of the country for long periods or serving in the Armed Forces).

I don't know what happens to gas that just sits for months, but it's not good. For instance, you might have a PHEV-100, making all your commutes in the EV mode, then after several months, a long trip. It could be vacation, a family emergency, etc.... Could the gas be evaporated or gone bad?

tbaleno
10-05-2006, 09:59 AM
gas can go bad. They sell gas stabilizers for storing eninges for an extended period

rhwinger
10-05-2006, 10:23 AM
I can't address the chemical deterioration specifically, other that it would seem some of the more volatile compounds in the gas would evaporate over time. As far as the mechanical side is concerned, carburator jets, floats and other small parts tend to "gum up" after prolonged storage. Not sure about the workings of fuel injectores, fuel pumps, etc... I've used gas stabilizers in the past, and they seem to work well for lawn mowers and other small engines. Not sure how these stabilizer formulations would effect FE though.



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