Date:         Wed, 17 Apr 2002 17:04:55 EDT
Reply-To:     FrankGRUN@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Frank Grunthaner <FrankGRUN@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: spare tire compartment gas can?????
Comments: To: andrewbell@qwest.net
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

In a message dated 4/17/02 12:33:46 PM, andrewbell@qwest.net writes:

<< One question I know wasn't asked in the whole discussion, or maybe it
was and I missed it: can you fill it with the gasoline substitute I see
available every once in a while? Non-explosive and is close enough to
gasoline? Anyone use it? I guess it is made for transport inside the
passenger compartments of vehicles...

AB
 >>

Good question. (And one not directly addressed in the archives.) The MBz can
that I use has only one sealing surface (the oblong cap). All other
components are welded with an internal surface that has a lower level of
friction than a bare metal surface. I assume it has been coated with an
anticorrosive film to minimize rust buildup. (Not the case with the classic
VW spare gas cans). These films are typically a well bonded fully aliphatic
coating not attacked by hydrocarbons. Some of these coatings are attacked by
alcohols. The cap seal is Viton and therefore impervious to all solvents at
any anticipated temperature. the emergency gas formulations should be
compatible with the extensive gas tank interior coatings, so I suspect that
all is well.

Nonetheless, I store gasoline in the container. the device is designed so
that you can't easily overfill the unit and the cap seal is impressive. In
releasing the cap, the can is vented, so I just don't see a problem. Besides,
I have opened the spare tire area, taken out the spare tank and used its
elixir without uncomfortable burning sensations on the hand (after a strong
midsummer central valley run - hot). The temperature of the gas cannot exceed
the temperature of the exiting airflow from the radiator. The air temperature
cannot exceed the coolant temperature so the absolute max is 100C. The
realistic actual temperature is more like 60 C. NBD!

So, I think its fine, tests required for empirical certitude.

Frank Grunthaner