What are the benefits of Rec 90? Exploring ethanol-free fuel for small engines

December 22, 2025 •

3 min read

Rec 90 is a 90 octane gasoline blend that contains no ethanol, a fact that offers significant advantages for certain types of equipment, particularly small engines and those used infrequently. These benefits range from preventing corrosion and fuel system damage to extending the shelf life of stored fuel.

Quick Summary

REC 90 is an ethanol-free, 90 octane gasoline used in recreational and small engines. Its primary advantages are corrosion prevention, better long-term storage stability, and avoiding ethanol-related engine damage. It improves performance and extends engine life, especially in marine vehicles and classic cars.

Key Points

Corrosion Prevention: Rec 90's ethanol-free formula prevents fuel system corrosion, a common problem with ethanol-blended gasoline, especially in marine engines and older equipment.
Improved Storage Stability: With no ethanol to attract water or degrade over time, Rec 90 has a longer shelf life, making it ideal for equipment that sits idle for extended periods, like boats or seasonal lawn equipment.
Protection for Small Engines: Small, air-cooled engines with carburetors are particularly vulnerable to ethanol's effects; Rec 90 prevents gumming and clogging in these delicate fuel systems.
Better Performance: The higher 90 octane rating in Rec 90 can lead to a cleaner, more efficient burn and reduced engine knock, contributing to smoother overall engine performance.
Preserves Classic Vehicles: For classic cars and other older vehicles with fuel systems not designed for ethanol, Rec 90 prevents the degradation of rubber and plastic components, avoiding costly repairs.
Reduces Maintenance Costs: By preventing corrosion, clogs, and other ethanol-related damage, Rec 90 can significantly lower long-term maintenance and repair costs for compatible equipment.

What is Rec 90 Fuel?

Rec 90 is a non-ethanol gasoline blend with a 90 octane rating. Standard pump gasoline typically contains up to 10% ethanol (E10), while Rec 90 is 100% gasoline. This makes Rec 90 suitable for a variety of small engines and vehicles where fuel can sit dormant for long periods or where fuel system materials are not compatible with ethanol.

The Problem with Ethanol for Certain Engines

Ethanol can be problematic for some fuel systems due to its solvent properties and its tendency to attract water, which is known as hygroscopy. Water absorption can lead to phase separation, where water and ethanol separate from the gasoline and can be drawn into the engine, causing damage. Ethanol can also degrade rubber and plastic components found in older fuel systems.

Key Benefits of Rec 90 Fuel

The benefits of using Rec 90 gasoline are primarily related to its stability and non-corrosive nature, leading to reduced maintenance and improved performance.

Corrosion Prevention

Rec 90 prevents ethanol-related corrosion in fuel systems because it does not contain ethanol. Ethanol's ability to absorb water can accelerate corrosion, particularly in marine environments. Using an ethanol-free fuel like Rec 90 helps reduce the risk of rust and corrosion.

Enhanced Fuel System Health

Ethanol can loosen deposits in older fuel tanks and lines, potentially clogging fuel filters and carburetors. This is particularly an issue for carbureted equipment like older lawnmowers, chainsaws, and classic cars. Rec 90 helps prevent these deposits, promoting smoother fuel delivery and reducing carburetor issues.

Superior Long-Term Storage

Rec 90 offers significantly better storage stability compared to ethanol-blended fuels. Ethanol can degrade and absorb water over time, making standard gasoline unsuitable for equipment stored for long periods, such as boats, snowblowers, or classic cars. Rec 90 remains stable longer, ensuring reliable starts.

Improved Performance and Efficiency

Some users report better engine performance and fuel efficiency with Rec 90. Its 90 octane rating, higher than typical 87 octane, can help reduce engine knock and provide a cleaner burn, leading to smoother operation in various engines.

Reduced Environmental Impact

Rec 90, as a purer gasoline, burns cleaner than ethanol-blended fuels, potentially resulting in lower emissions and a reduced environmental footprint, especially in sensitive areas like marine environments.

Comparison Table: Rec 90 vs. E10 Gasoline


Feature	Rec 90 Gasoline	E10 (Standard) Gasoline
Ethanol Content	0% (Ethanol-Free)	Up to 10%
Octane Rating	90	Typically 87
Water Absorption	Not hygroscopic; does not absorb water	Hygroscopic; absorbs water over time
Corrosion Risk	Low; ideal for all fuel system types	High; can cause corrosion in incompatible systems
Storage Stability	Long shelf life; very stable	Short shelf life; degrades quickly
Fuel System Clogging	Very low risk, prevents deposits	High risk, can gum up carburetors
Engine Compatibility	Excellent for small, marine, and classic engines	Not recommended for all small, marine, and classic engines
Cost	Typically higher per gallon	Typically lower per gallon

How to Know if Your Engine Needs Rec 90

The suitability of Rec 90 depends on your engine type and age. Equipment with small, air-cooled, carbureted engines (like lawnmowers and chainsaws) and marine engines benefit significantly from ethanol-free fuel. Classic cars with older fuel system components should also use Rec 90 to prevent ethanol-related damage. Modern cars with fuel injection systems are generally compatible with ethanol-blended gasoline.

Finding and Using Rec 90 Fuel

Rec 90 availability varies, often found at marinas and gas stations in recreational areas. Resources like Pure-Gas.org can help locate stations selling ethanol-free fuel. Avoid mixing Rec 90 with E10 gasoline to prevent ethanol issues. Using a fuel stabilizer with Rec 90 can further improve storage stability.

Conclusion: The Long-Term Value of Rec 90

Despite a potentially higher cost, Rec 90 offers significant long-term value through engine protection, reduced maintenance, and increased reliability. For owners of sensitive equipment such as marine vehicles, lawn equipment, and classic cars, using Rec 90 is a worthwhile investment for preserving engine health and ensuring smooth operation.

This article contains general information and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult your engine's manufacturer's manual for specific fuel recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary difference is the ethanol content. Rec 90 is an ethanol-free, 90 octane gasoline, whereas standard pump gasoline typically contains up to 10% ethanol.

For owners of equipment susceptible to ethanol damage, such as marine engines, small engines, and classic cars, the long-term benefits of corrosion prevention and reduced maintenance costs often outweigh the higher upfront price.

While Rec 90 can be used in some standard automotive engines, it is mainly formulated for marine and small engines. Modern cars are built to handle ethanol, so the extra cost of Rec 90 is generally not necessary and may not provide a performance advantage.

Mixing Rec 90 with E10 is not recommended. This introduces ethanol into your fuel system, which can still cause damage over time. It is best to use a pure, single fuel type as per your manufacturer's recommendation.

Rec 90's higher octane rating and cleaner burn can lead to smoother engine operation and potentially improved fuel economy, especially in smaller or high-performance engines.

Rec 90 is often available at marinas and gas stations in recreational areas, but availability varies. Websites like Pure-Gas.org provide a crowd-sourced list of stations offering ethanol-free gasoline.

Yes, Rec 90 is far superior for long-term storage. Ethanol-free fuel does not degrade or absorb moisture as quickly as E10, which helps prevent fuel system issues when equipment is stored for long periods.