TO THE GROUP wrote:

There is an interesting thread going on in
rec.crafts.metalworking concerning the quality of gasoline
and how it pertains to small engines such as weedwackers etc.

I've quoted an interesting comment made by just one individual this
past hour for your information and comments as to how this might
effect other types of engines such as aircraft engines.

The subject line is OT Garden Equipment Manufactures Say
Don't Use gas Over 30 Days Old???

And here is one quoted comment........

Dropped in to 2 repair shops this morning and asked them
about gas problems.

Both of them told me the same thing, refineries are removing
some of the additives that makes gas last a reasonable time
in storage. Customer complaints about poor starting etc.
are driving them crazy.

I still say we are paying more and getting sub standard gas
from our refineries and the leaning out the fuel supply to
these newer machines is shortening the life expectancy of
all the gas driven equipment we are buying.

Anybody here starting to hear comments from their FBO
on old gasoline in airplanes.

30 days may be okay, but auto gas starts getting pretty gummy after 6
weeks or so. Always use a stabilizing product (such as STA-BIL) in
your gasoline (and carburetor) when you store your small engines for a
lengthy time.

On the other hand, aviation gasoline has different properties and stays
fine for extended periods of time. The biggest risk from storing av
gas for long periods is water and/or rust from tanks.