It seems like every small engine shop around here has a display of "ethanol failures" right next to the fuel additives. But I have yet to see it cause any problems that weren't greatly enhanced by lack of use or total lack of care.
I've found a lot of small engine carbs are caked full of this chalky white ethanol residue inside. I guess that's what's left behind when the fuel evaporates. It seems to slowly eat aluminum as well because I've pulled apart some that were in pretty poor shape internally after.
Wash the gas with water, the alcohol will attach to the water and you just drain off the mix, it has been done successfully in the aviation world for years to get rid of the alcohol. If you dont believe me, google it. Simple chemistry.
I've seen this done on youtube but have never had a need to try it. Water added to the fuel and mixed up. Left to sit in a clear container, ethanol/water separates to the bottom and is drained out with a spigot.
