Draining tank, bowls for winter?

I just read an article about the new fuels with ethanol.
I seems Ethanol is just alcohol, which breaks down rubber.
Small engine repair shops have been seeing a rise in carb issues.
The article blames the new fuels for the break down.

I always thought topping the tank off and using stabilizer was to prevent condensation, varnish and to keep rubber carb parts pliable.
The article recommends draining the tank and bowl or let it run dry.
Any thoughts, opinions on this?

 

The rule of thumb is never run ethanol in a small engine that wasn't designed with it in mind. Some people have told me that its okay as long as it a at least 90% gasoline, but 90% blends arent usually any cheaper and you will get less fuel mileage, so why risk it? I just stay away.

Stephen.

 

That's kind of why I posted this.
In my area all fuel at the pump is at least 10% ethanol.
Some brands more than 10%.
Mobil and Sunoco were the last hold outs now they have ethanol too.

 

Mine are about 50 - 50 right now. Also, an article popped up in the paper that since the 10 % blend wasn't doing any harm, they would now try 20 %, like we're a bunch of Guinea Pigs, or something!

I don't like it any more than you men.

 

I would not suggest draining the tank PERIOD.
Filler Up and add some fuel stabilizer of your choice.
A dry tank is just ASKING to become rust's (FEMALE DOG)

Carb bowls, heck yes drain them sons-a-guns when riding season is over.

EDIT: If you have not added an inline fuel filter yet....do so now

 

2007 dodge caliber. i can consistently get 1-3 MORE mph when i fill with 90/10 mix than with 100/00 mix gasoline...

maybe theres another additive i dont know about but it works fine for my car...

i avoid that station with the bikes though. straight 100proof gasoline...

 

i've had good luck running the last tank of the season with Bel-Ray 32:1 two stroke mix in the tractor and mower then any left over tops off the bikes then run them till they smell like a motocross and walk away
but thats before the ethanol issue

 

Alcohol in the fuel is asking for trouble for long term storage. Get a fuel stablizer in the fuel and make sure you run it into the carbs. The exhaust should be slightly smoking when it gets in there so that ought to be a clue it is in place.