The use of ethanol or “moonshine whiskey” has been around for some time, in fact in 1908 Fords model T used ethanol corn alcohol gasoline to provide a power source, and even earlier in 1826 Samuel Morey developed an engine that ran on ethanol and turpentine. Obviously the use of ethanol as a fuel is nothing new.
Virtually no commercial ethanol or ethanol blends were sold to the public for many years, due mainly to the low price, availability and performance of gasoline. Moving into the 1980's MTBE was added to replace lead and begin the process of oxygenating fuel, but due to ground water contamination and recognized carcinogens was banned around 2006. A few short years later, enter ethanol as mandated by the Fed. In the following years numerous complaints surrounding ethanol was come to light as expressed by a growing number of mechanics, specifically in the small motor industry. Here is an example of the issues found by mechanic Doug Ryms of Como Mower Service in Columbus Ohio experienced: “the alcohol actually dissipates the oil. So on a two cycle engine, you are lubricating the engine, but the oil is actually being pushed away, so its not actually lubricating the engine.” *
The introduction of ethanol changes the chemical structure of gasoline, and makes it susceptible to moisture and separation quickly deteriorating the fuel, leaving gummy residue or shellac in carburetor bodies, jets and fuel bowls. Damage occurs to gaskets, seals and allows rust to contribute to further problems.
According to the Renewable Fuels Association there is no evidence that ethanol has contributed to engine failure in four stroke or two stroke small engines, but the mounting reports from repair shops and independent mechanics suggests otherwise.
For the later model four stroke ATV owner, the complaints seem to be rather low, suggesting that manufacturers have taken steps to prevent damage, due to improved technology and construction.
The outlook for two stroke small engines, especially older models, may not be so encouraging and owners should try to avoid ethanol if at all possible, perhaps all us ATV owners should do the same.
To prevent significant damage to ATV and dirt bike engines the use of Gas Stabilizer is recommended,
Amsoil's AST, Eastwood's Fuel Guard,or CRC's Phaseguard are all products to minimize and prevent this issue. Further in depth information is available at the following link and provides interesting reading: www.fuel-testers.com



*MSNBC.COM Alex Johnson 8/1/2008. www.fuel-testers.com
Links: www.fuel-testers.com, www.fuel-testers.com

Well depending in which state you live, you may also have to pay a fee, typically $20 to dispose of the old CRT to the recyclers. It's currently against the law to deposit CRTs in land fills .