storing gasoline for an emergency
 

watching all the people stuck while trying to get away from hurricaines made me think about wanting to store some for a "rainy day". I was thinking of buying a couple of the NATO style 5 gal gas cans and having some in reserve. Any tips on how long it can be stored and still be usable in a car? Should I add Drigas or anything like that to it?

I use sta-bil in my motorcycle over the winter. 5 months, no problem. According to the web site it is good for 12-24 months depending on concentration. I wouldn't store it over a year.

Sta-bil

Hi There,

Been there doing that, a big +1 on the stabil gas treatment, and also do not skimp on the quality of the gas cans, stay far away from the new ventless style gas cans, more trouble that they are worth. the best can for the money is used nato cans
http://image.sportsmansguide.com/dim...0,200&cvt=jpeg
http://www.sportsmansguide.com/cb/cb.asp?a=201701
buy a NATO Gas Nozzle to go with them.

I have 5 and I rotate the gas from one can every 3 months

hope this helps

Any advantage of using metal vs. plastic?

Metal vs Plastic: I've used both, and as long a the quality is good, they are about the same.

NATO cans, jerry cans, it shouldn't matter too much. Just store gas for a few months then pour it into the car and go re-fill. Fairly fresh gas all the time. Unless your car is ancient or desperately in need of a tune-up, it'll burn old gas just fine.

What about location? Is storage in a NATO can in the garage safe? Or basement? Or tool shed? How about amount? 5-5 gallon cans? 25-50 gallons storage?

Anyone have a good general guideline?

Thanks.

Store it in as dry of a location as you can. Keep the cans full, to help prevent condensation in the can. Not like to the brim full, have to allow for expansion and what not, but you know what I'm getting at. Half full cans will condensate, especially through the cooler months. Sta-bil will definitely help, and a gas drier will not hurt, either. I've kept gas for 18 months, with no problems.

Thanks for the info - One more question: would storing it in the garage be ok? And do you change out the gas after 18 mos?

The big thing to remember for storage is that this stuff goes *BOOM* if not stored properly.

Keep away from sparks, open flame, pilot lights, welders, children, and other explosive things.