Snrub, no apology is due. I have taken no offense whatsoever, and in fact have appreciated your ability to supply factual, firsthand information rather than relying on hearsay or internet gossip. Anytime I get the chance to learn something, I'm grateful.
And I agree with you in that small engines are far more prone to suffering any ill effects attributed to alcohol fuels than are automobiles. But that's not the fault of ethanol, it's a sign of the times. Small engine technology and development typically parallels that of the automotive sector, with the exception it follows behind about 30 years. Some of what we see now in our cars and trucks will find it's way into our lawnmowers in a few decades. In fact I am certified through Kohler Engines for their EFI systems, where electronic fuel management and ECM controlled ignition systems are the norm.
The trouble as I see it, lies with the public, not so much the ethanol suppliers or engine manufacturers. Pulling up to the pump with your gas cans in tow will lead to checking the price, and under ordinary conditions E85 will supposedly be cheaper than E10 or E15. E10 paid my bills, but E85 will likely put a small engine mechanic's kids through college. There is supposed to be a large, warning decal affixed to the pump, warning consumers NOT to use the fuel in off road equipment, but many will see the cheaper price and nothing else. But again, that's not the fault of ethanol.
The technology is on the horizon in the off-road industry to allow for greater, less troublesome use of ethanol fuels. It's incorporating it into an acceptable price point for the consumer that's the sticking point.
