Leading engine manufacturers, including Kohler Engines, are warning users of all gasoline-powered lawnmowers and other outdoor power equipment to be vigilant when fueling their equipment. Gasoline blends containing more than 10% ethanol—such as E15 and E85—should not be used. These blends, which are already available in several U.S. states, can cause permanent and irreversible damage that is not covered under warranty.

 Situation Overview:

• ·The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently gave approval for gas stations to start selling 15% ethanol-blended fuel (E15). E15 gas is now legal for use in cars, pickups, and SUVs manufactured since 2001. However, E15 is not approved for off-road engines. This includes engines found in lawn mowers, riding mowers, power washers, portable generators, leaf blowers and other commonly used outdoor power equipment. Engine manufactures and leading trade organizations are concerned that many consumers will utilize E15 in outdoor power equipment and other non-approved engines, causing permanent and irreversible damage.

•  Read and follow your owner’s manual. The manual will clearly explain what fuels can be used to ensure a properly functioning product.
• Don’t put any fuel containing more than 10 percent ethanol (E10) into small engine products, unless otherwise stated.
• Check the gas pump to be sure that it is dispensing E10. Some pumps at local gas stations may offer both E10 and E15, or have blender pumps that dispense mid-level ethanol fuels for “flex-fuel” automobiles.
• Higher ethanol fuel (E15) may be less expensive than regular (E10) fuel, but putting E15 into an E10 approved product could cause product failure and void its warranty.
• Don’t assume fuel pumped into your vehicle can also be dispensed into your gasoline can. Be sure to fill your gas can with E10 fuel only.

 Additional Resource:

•  OPEI – Outdoor Power Equipment Institute – opei.org