5.3L convert to E85

[Obi-Wan]

I've been looking into E85 (85% ethanol fuel). It appears that 2002 was the first year that a 5.3L Tahoe could run E85. Alas, I own a 2001. Does anybody know what all has to change for an engine to run E85? Due to the higher alcohol content, I'm guessing seals, gaskets, hoses, etc. Anything else? Computer programming? Injectors?

What I'm getting at is, how difficult would it be to convert a non-E85 5.3L to be E85-capable?

I live in Nebraska, which is the 3rd largest producer of ethanol in the country. Not only would I be a good citizen by supporting the local economy and reducing my emissions, but ethanol gets hefty state subsidies in Nebraska, so it's riduculously cheap here.

[fuyingbro]

you posted this some time ago. but i am in about the same dilemma as you. i to have a 2001 5.3L yet a Silverado that is just shy of the list. with the list starting at 2002. for our engines. if you have found out anything or if you have done a conversion with something like fuelflex or some other aftermarket product let me know.

[gremlin96]

Is it possible to convert a vehicle that was designed for gasoline to operate on E85?

Yes and No. It is technically possible, however, there are no conversion or aftermarket parts that have been certified by the EPA as meeting the standards to maintain clean exhaust emissions.

Technically speaking, converting a vehicle that was designed to operate on unleaded gasoline only to operate on another form of fuel is a violation of the federal law and the offender may be subject to significant penalties.

No aftermarket conversion company has taken the initiative to certify an E85 kit that would allow a gasoline vehicle to operate on 85% ethanol.
http://www.iowacorn.org/ethanol/ethanol_5.html

[tbrdlvr88]

We at E85andyou.com distribute a product that has been in the EPA testing process for quite some time. The problem lies with the EPA itself. Our wonderful government regulates us to death. Tests have shown up to 70% decrease in emissions with E85. However, to become EPA certified EVERY engine family from EVERY manufacturer must each be tested to become fully certified. We do have a letter of compliance from the EPA allowing sales of the converters because testing is still in progress.

[J-Ri]

Originally Posted by gremlin96

Technically speaking, converting a vehicle that was designed to operate on unleaded gasoline only to operate on another form of fuel is a violation of the federal law and the offender may be subject to significant penalties.

Yeah, that's BS. It's illegal to make a vehicle run cleaner unless they tell you it's ok. I heard awhile back about someone who made an electric car in a state where they have emmission testing (not that electric is that great, see my post in the "electric and hybrid vehicles" forum). They failed him because there was no tailpipe to check for emissions from.

There's a post in the Avalance forum about E-85, very similar to your question.