E85Forum.com

LexusFTW · Joined: 03 Mar 2011 Posts: 2

Guys, I'm trying to find a fuel cooler that e85 safe. Most coolers are made with aluminum or copper. Is a copper cooler going to have any problems?

This is going on a high horsepower setup with a Magnafuel 4303 fuel pump.

I've searched high a low and I can't find anything that I feel comfortable running on the return line of my fuel system.

Any help would be appreciated.

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

The copper is more problematic than the aluminum. Anodized aluminum is absolutely safe with ethanol and untreated aluminum is ok as long as the fuel is kept dry (ie sealed fuel tank so it cannot absorb moisture from the air).

I saw a study recently that tested components in ethanol and the mass loss of untreated aluminum in E85 was comparable to the mass loss of other common metals in gasoline. The low moisture content and anticorrosion additives prevent any significant issues.

Many of us are using aluminum components with no problems.

Copper tends to catalize oxidation of fuels and is generally to be avoided. Brass and bronze are less of an issue.

If I were you I would just go with the aluminum and take care that your fuel is fresh and not allowed to be exposed for long periods in open air at high humidity. Water absorption by alcohol fuels is trivial except in near tropical environments.

Larry

LexusFTW · Joined: 03 Mar 2011 Posts: 2

Wow, thanks for the response, I'm not sure why I waited so long to sign up with the forum. I'll try to contribute as much as I can.

I found a company that makes anodized heat sinks. I think I'll go with two of them Smile