Snow blower fuel choices

[UltrajetRush22]

I run a Honda HSS1332ATD in Boulder and I've experimented with both regular and premium. Honestly, I didn't notice much change in performance but I do use premium if I know I won't be running it for a while. My girlfriend's dad is a small engine mechanic and he told me the bigger issue is ethanol content, not octane. He recommends ethanol-free gas if you can get it or at least using a stabilizer religiously. Has anyone had long term issues using regular with Briggs & Stratton engines?

 

[arcticoperator1022]

Your girlfriend's dad is right. Ethanol, not octane, messes with small engines. Regular gas works for most Briggs engines. To stop carb issues and fuel problems, use ethanol-free gas or a good stabilizer. If you're storing gas for over a month, add Sta-Bil or something like it every time you fill up

 

[Wittick]

Octane doesn't matter much for these snow blowers, ethanol ruins them far faster. Anyone still trusting regular gas without a stabilizer is basically inviting carburetor nightmares and shortened engine life.

 

[UltrajetRush22]

Both have the same view. I'll use ethanol-free fuel for my snow blower this season. When storing the machine in the spring, even if I use stabilized, ethanol-free gas, is it still advisable to run the carburetor dry?