Leaking fuel pump seal - possibly from E85?

I was leaving a small puddle of fuel in the driveway every time I parked with a full tank of gas, so I checked it out and it was clearly seeping from the rubber seal that mates the fuel pump to the tank. Replaced the $10 gasket (part# 42025AG04A)and everything's fixed.

The old gasket looked good enough - no obvious cracks or degradation. I run straight E85 in the summers, and I'm wondering if that may have something to do with it. Anyone else have issues with E85 causing leaks?

Did you change your pump when u went e85? If so, did you change your gasket?

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I installed a Walbro when I went E85 at 90k miles, no new gasket. It didn't start leaking for 2 years after that. Apparently I should've replaced it then. It's only a $9 part.

Yup. I just recently replaced mine too
Started leaking after 7 months after install.
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Only thing that causes those gaskets to leak is someone touching them. I have yet to see E85 hurt a stock part of a car. Eats plenty of aftermarket stuff though.

What kinds of parts have you seen E85 eat? Walbros?

Walbros actually seem to do just fine. Aeros and DW's I've seen fail and blamed on E85

Lots of aftermarket seals and rubbery items turn to goo. Lots of aftermarket finishes (paint) melt off real quick

DW pumps are e-85 tested and certified. 3 year warranty even when using e-85.

e-85 is much like corn whiskey. It will eat through all kinds of materials. Also dont recommend sitting on it for long periods (in the car). While it maintains its octane better than gasoline, it can varnish a tank and gum up injectors. It is also hygroscopic.

Interesting. I assumed E85 would be less prone to clog injectors since it's such a powerful solvent. Took a good look at my tank when I replaced the gasket - looks brand new. I use Techron additive 2-3 times a year.

I have been told you should pickle the injectors rather than let them sit with e-85.

But my in house test went better than expected. I let a tank of e-85 sit for 8 months in the car. Tank was perfect. Pulled the injectors and sent them to RC for cleaning/testing/balance. Turned out far cleaner than most I send in.

But, rather than ask members to repeat my test for scientific purposes, it is easier to go with what I was taught. For long term storage, drain the fuel. If by chance the system was not air tight, the fuel could absorb moisture from the air and that would be bad.

Originally Posted by m sprank

I have been told you should pickle the injectors rather than let them sit with e-85.

But my in house test went better than expected. I let a tank of e-85 sit for 8 months in the car. Tank was perfect. Pulled the injectors and sent them to RC for cleaning/testing/balance. Turned out far cleaner than most I send in.

LALGT's car?

Lol. Yes.

Got heem