E85Forum.com

TurboBMW · Joined: 03 Feb 2006 Posts: 3

I work in the BMW aftermarket industry and build turbo and supercharged applications for late model BMWs, such as the E46 3-series (99-06). Due to the nature of forced induction, ethanol provides a great fuel solution given it's octane rating, in addition to creating awareness as a great alternative to conventional gasoline.

My question is: Does anyone know if BMW's late-model fuel system parts are designed to withstand higher blends of ethanol/gasoline, beyond E10? Particularly E85 and E100?

I've checked the parts guide for Brazilian and Swedish BMWs, but cannot locate anything. I have also spoken with Bosch Brazil, but they couldn't confirm what parts were necessary to run high blends of ethanol for the E46 model.

Any advice is appreciated.

Thank you

hotrod · Joined: 19 Apr 2005 Posts: 872 Location: Colorado

Third hand comments only ----- but I've seen statements posted that the high end Bosch injectors are all stainless steel construction.

I suggest you ask Bosch that question --- if they confirm it, then their injectors would be very high on the list of "likely ethanol compatible" components to try.

Given that they are prime suppliers for the German auto community, and with VW's ethanol compatible production I would not be surprised if they make suitable injectors ----- But!! this is only hear say at this point.

Larry

specialgreen · Posted: Sun Feb 05, 2006 6:27 pm Post subject:

Do BMWs share parts with the VW/Audi lines? I could check what I've got in my Passat (running 40% ethanol).

My experience is that the difference between "compatible" and "incompatible" is a matter of years: I deliberately used some clear PVC tubing from a hardware store in an unpressurized fuel system. PVC has very poor compatibility with ethanol. The plastic finally turned brittle after two years' use; the failure mode was hairline cracks visible after flexing the tubing. For E-10 compatible fuel systems, I suspect that metallic fuel hoses are a bigger issue, but that you won't see signs of trouble for 4+ years.