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(mark Ransley) writes:

Some new blends get 6 mo even with stabil

The gums that form in fuel are from bacterial action. Sta-Bil is an
antibacterial agent that inhibits the growth of that bacteria. If fuel
is an alcohol or MTBE blend, it draws moisture out of the atmosphere and
will grow bacteria even if stabilized. That is why the new blends won't
store as long. Many areas only sell oxygenated fuel part of the year, so
you can extend fuel storage by buying non-oxygenated fuel.

Generally the larger the tank the less contact with the atmosphere, so
fuel will last longer in a large, full tank than it will last in a small,
partially full tank. Any storage can should be tightly sealed for
maximum storage life. Most cars have sealed fuel systems, so the fuel
will store well in the gas tank. Older vehicles will draw moisture in a
vented gas tank. If the fuel in a tank is doubtful, you can pour a can
of carb cleaner into it to keep gum deposits to a minimum.

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