Question about flex fuel engines

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Dec 23, 2006 | 10:59 AM

gunslingr76

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Question about flex fuel engines

I am looking to capitalize on the year end savings by purchasing a left over 2006 f150 super crew 4x4. I have specific options, and color, that I want in this truck, and the only thing available in my region (NJ) is a vehicle with a Flex Fuel engine. In my area, flex fuel is not even available. Can any one tell me their thoughts on the long term reliability of these motors, and perhaps the main difference between this engine and the convention engine. My present truck is a 1995 f150 with 55,000 miles, so I plan to keep this new truck just as long. If I use strictly gasoline in this motor, will it harm any components down the line? I really appreciate all of your input since I am not a mechanic and have learned so much just by reading all of the posts. Merry Christmas to all!

Dec 23, 2006 | 11:36 AM

BlueOval5.0

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From: Long Island, New York

Ford has been making Flex Fuel vehicles for a decade now. There is no harm running E10 in an E85 compatible motor. The computer compensates for the fuel mixture. Some of the components are made of different materials because ethanol is corrosive. There are hundreds of thousands of vehicles out there from Ford and GM that are FFV and nobody even knows or knew. I don't forsee any issues whatsoever. I am going to get the FFV motor just in case E85 ever becomes available and I want to use it in the future.

Best of luck buying a new truck, I'm sure you'll love it.

Dec 23, 2006 | 01:45 PM

Tylus

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From: SE Georgia

a flex fuel motor will run just fine on normal gas. there are just a few componenets that are of different materials to allow for the e-85 to be run without destroying the internals.

like blueOval5.0, I got one to take advantage of the e-85 when/if it becomes available.

Dec 23, 2006 | 01:48 PM

Firemut30

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From: Copperas Cove, Tx

From what I understand, the difference is the fuel lines and filter. Bigger fuel lines from what I am told. I have heard they spend about 300 bucks to make it a FFV and rake in on the government for having these vehicles.

Dec 23, 2006 | 01:59 PM

linkinluver07

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From: some where....Some place

i think its a steal their selling it at $1.80 here in Cross-roads of america... almost make me want to upgrade that F150 i'm getting ready to buy

Dec 23, 2006 | 03:53 PM

Tylus

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Joined: Mar 2004

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From: SE Georgia

only problem with e85 is that the mileage you get is just over 1/2 that of normal gas. I can 400-500 miles in 1 tanks with normal. the e-85 is rated for 200-350ish miles per tank

the ethanol doesn't burn as hot as gasoline so you use more to create the same power

Dec 23, 2006 | 04:09 PM

BlueOval5.0

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From: Long Island, New York

Yes, E85 is not as efficient as E10 but if it costs less, pollutes less, and uses less foreign oil - it is worth it to me.

I believe the Feds give the manufacturers a break on the CAFE standards for each alternative fuel vehicle they produce. This is why they were under the radar for so long.