Is too much fuel stabilizer bad?

[MrTeek]

Hello. I was an idiot and didn't read the directions on the fuel stabilizer, and added the whole bottle  about 8 ozs or so.

So is this bad?

[Ken in Regina]

Well, you won't have to worry about the fuel degrading much. 

You won't be able to get hold of anyone at the manufacturer until probably Monday or Tuesday but you can check on the web site to see if they have a FAQ or product spec with more detail about such things. If you can't find anything on the web site, phone the manufacturer and ask.

My only concern would be what kind of stabilizer you used. If it's SeaFoam or something like it that also has a de-varnishing chemical in it, I would dump the fuel out right away. If there are any thin or weak spots in your fuel system anywhere, it could eat them through. I've talked to a couple of mechanics how have used it in their boats and they got fuel system leaks after using it. Don't throw it out, in case it's okay to use. Dump it into a gas can and if it's okay, you can put it back in. Or, you can dilute it and put it back in. Or dilute it and use it in the lawnmower (or snowblower if you are cursed enough to live where one is necessary).

If it's StaBil, it might not be such an issue because it's just a stabilizer. But I honestly don't know. I'm one of those anal types who generally reads the directions on that stuff. Especially when I buy it in an automotive store and plan to use it in my bike, which has a considerably smaller tank than my car. 

...ken...

[rger8]

That's a great question! I always wondered what would happen if I put to much in. I run Sta-bil in all my bikes all the time. I try to put in the recommeded amount but kinda guess at it. I probably put more than needed. No problems yet. I was thinking it might fry the valves or something like that. That stuff really stinks and seems caustic! Hope nothing happens, you'll probably be ok I would just try to thin in out as suggested in the previous post.

[tt_four]

My bottle of Stabil specifically says that over treatment will not cause any problems. I can't say how much you'd have to put in before it would start to cause a problem, but I'm sure they played out the scenario more than enough and would've given a more specific warning if a whole bottle would cause any harm. I wouldn't worry about it. If you're still concerned in spring just drain the tank and put fresh gas in it instead of using what's in there. Leave it in there for now though, it'll still keep the tank from rusting which is the main concern.

[Pelikan]

They're petroleum distillates, and 8oz isn't that much in the grand scheme of things.  If the tank wasn't full, fill it for maximum dilution and go.  Nothing to worry about.

[MrTeek]

Hey guys. First and foremost, Merry Christmas!

I tried calling the company yesterday, but they were closed for the holidays. No biggie as I found another bottle I had and it says on it "Overdosing is not harmful", so I guess I'm okay. I also filled it on a full tank, so hopefully that absorbs it more.

Thanks for the replies and have a great holiday.

[tb0lt]

I used to dump an occassional full can of seafoam in my Triumph TT600. It had 26,000 miles when i sold it and the engine ran like new. 

[adidasguy]

I use Eastwood's fuel stabilizer. Extra is OK as per:

Fuel Guard-Add to every gas tank. One 8oz bottle treats up to 30 gallons of fuel. For best results pour one bottle in before adding fuel. Fill tank with gasoline This will ensure the additive is thoroughly mixed with the fuel.

Fuel Stabilizer-For storage up to 12 months, add one bottle for every 20 gallons. If tank is larger than 20 gallons, it is okay to add two bottles, you cannot over-treat. For best results pour one bottle in before adding fuel. Fill tank with gasoline. This will ensure the additive is thoroughly mixed with the fuel

Eastwood's Fuel Guard additive system prevents the harmful effects caused by Ethanol and prevents corrosion, gumming and resin build-up. Use Fuel Guard Protection formula with every fill-up and Fuel Stabilizer formula for storage up to 12 months

   * Prevents Ethanol Phase Separation and the harmful impact of Ethanol blended fuels
   * Stabilizes Ethanol-blended fuels
   * Prevents corrosion in the fuel system
   * Helps remove water
   * Keeps stored fuel fresh for easy starting
   * Protects against gum & resin build-up
   * Prevents clogged carburetors, injectors, filters & fuel lines
   * Compatible with all 2 & 4 stroke engines
   * Contains no harmful alcohol or hydroscopic additives

[MrTeek]

I use Eastwood's fuel stabilizer.

Cool, good info adidasguy. It seems a lot of the brand name stabilizers nowadays have no problems with overdosing  Maybe all that extra stabilizer will help clean up the fuel system?

[BaltimoreGS]

Is there fuel stabilizer stabilizer??  Seriously, the bottle I have is probably 4+ years old now, does it ever expire?

-Jessie