Using the right kind of fuel and properly storing it will help minimize fuel-related problems and extend the life of your generator.
Champion generators require unleaded gasoline with a minimum 87-octane rating and a maximum 10% ethanol content.
Take caution when fueling the generator. Wait for the fuel tank to cool for a few minutes after running. Remove the cap slowly. Refuel in a well-ventilated area away from combustible products.
Choose the Right Gasoline for a Champion Generator
When selecting fuel for your Champion generator, it is important to use fresh gasoline with a low level of ethanol. I also recommend using a fuel additive to help minimize the negative effects fuel can have on the fuel system and engine.
Low Ethanol Content
Ethanol is an alternative fuel added to gas to make it more environmentally friendly. It is developed from high-starch plants like corn.
This product naturally attracts moisture from the air. This water and ethanol mixture will separate from gas and leave behind varnish and gummy deposits that can restrict fuel flow and degrade components.
This mixture will eventually sink to the bottom of the fuel tank and run extremely hot through the engine potentially damaging the engine.
Because of the negative effects ethanol has on the fuel system and engine, always choose a gas with an ethanol content no greater than 10%.
Stay away from fuel sold as E15, E30, or E85. These fuels contain up to 15%, 30%, and 85% ethanol.
Use Fresh Gasoline
Gas begins to break down and degrade as soon as 30 days after purchase. Only purchase enough gas you are able to consume within 30 days.
I know this is easier said than done. Most people don’t use their generator on a regular schedule and only keep it on hand for emergency situations and power outages. It’s hard to know when you’re going to use your generator next.
Because of this, I add a fuel stabilizer so it lasts a little longer before it breaks down in case I am unable to use the fuel timely.
Add a Fuel Stabilizer
Add a fuel stabilizer to gasoline while it is still fresh. Fuel stabilizers cannot reverse the effects of old gas.
I add Sea Foam Motor Treatment to every tank of gas. Sea Foam not only stabilizes gas for up to two years but also cleans the fuel system and reduces moisture.
It helps minimize problems that can develop from running gas that contains ethanol. Another good fuel additive alternative is STA-BIL.
Ethanol-Free Fuel (Optional)
Using an ethanol-free gas will avoid the negative effects ethanol has on the generator. While ethanol-free gas is the best fuel to run through your Champion generator, it is the more expensive fuel choice.
Ethanol-free gas can be purchased at some fuel stations. It is sold as recreation fuel or REC-90.
It can also be bought in canisters at your local hardware store or online.
Tips for Purchasing and Storing Gas for Your Champion Generator
Using the wrong kind of gas or old gas in a Champion generator can cause starting and running problems. Follow these quick tips when choosing and storing gas:
- Always use fresh gas and consume it within 30 days.
- Use unleaded gasoline with a minimum 87-octane rating and a maximum 10% ethanol content.
- Add a fuel stabilizer when you are unable to consume gas within 30 days.
- Store gasoline in a dry cool location away from combustible products.