Fuel Stabilizer?

[markedmondson]

What's the best practice for maintaining a clean fuel system in a carbureted car that may sit for several weeks?

In the past, I just filled the tank with gasoline to minimize the amount of air in the tank.  But is that enough with today's water absorbing ethanol fuels (I live in a metro area- Dallas- so the gasoline around here is laced with ethanol)?

Is using a fuel stabilizer like Sta-bil a good idea?  Any downside or risk with using these products?

[Ethan1]

What's the best practice for maintaining a clean fuel system in a carbureted car that may sit for several weeks?

In the past, I just filled the tank with gasoline to minimize the amount of air in the tank.  But is that enough with today's water absorbing ethanol fuels (I live in a metro area- Dallas- so the gasoline around here is laced with ethanol)?

Is using a fuel stabilizer like Sta-bil a good idea?  Any downside or risk with using these products?

 I have used Sta-Bil and have had good luck. Some will tell you different, but from my experience, Sta-Bil is okay.

[429bbf]

my wives car will sit for 2 years at a time. i use sta-bill and add a quart of atf on each fill up . i had the carb apart about 2 years ago and it was spotless . the problem i had was the oring . it is a computer carb. 1981.fwiw

[markedmondson]

I have never heard of adding ATF to the gas.  What does that accomplish?  I must admit that I'm hesitant to use a product for a purpose differently than originally intended.

I'm specifically concerned about guarding against damage from ethanol. 

Any experience with "STA-BIL Ethanol Treatment with Performance Improver"?  Sta-bil says it "prevents Ethanol fuel related damage in vehicles and small engines, prevents corrosion damage, helps remove water, stabilizes fuel to keep it fresh during storage, and cleans fuel system for improved in-season performance."

That would be great if true.