I recently read a story in Convenience Store Decisions that there is a considerable cost for upgrading tanks to accommodate ethanol products. Can you explain what the different requirements are for gas with a 10-15% ethanol versus E85 and a rough estimate.
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For converting an existing gasoline tank to 10-15% ethanol the main objective is to ensure that the tank doesn't contain any water or debris. For conversion to E-85 you must ALSO check with the manufacturer of the tank, piping, and dispensers to ensure that they are compatible with alcohol. The cost to remove water and debris from your tank will vary according to the size and condition of the tank and the local contractor availability, but may be around $1000 plus waste disposal fees. The cost for thorough tank cleaning for E-85 conversion may be higher. If your tanks are fairly new and don't contain much water or debris your costs could be lower.
