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Wear characteristics of fleet vehicles operating on methyl alcohol

Journal Article · · SAE Prepr.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.4271/811202· OSTI ID:5155914
Three 1978 Ford Pinto 2300 cc vehicles were retrofitted to operate on neat methanol and driven for an 18-month period. Modifications included carburetor rejetting, upgraded fuel filtration and electrical cold start assistance. Over 30,000 vehicle miles were accumulated in the test period. Wear metal samples were taken at 1000-mile intervals and analyzed for 16 metallic constituents using Direct Reading Emission Spectroscopy. Percentage fuel and water dilution were also measured. A deterioration in performance and increased oil consumption in all vehicles was noted after 10,000 to 12,000 miles of operation. Measurement of internal engine parts at the end of the test period revealed extreme upper cylinder and bearing wear. 25 refs.
Research Organization:
Univ of Auckland, NZ
OSTI ID:
5155914
Journal Information:
SAE Prepr.; (United States), Journal Name: SAE Prepr.; (United States); ISSN SEPPA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English