My son's car has been sitting idle for about two weeks, But due to the cold, I decided to use it for work last Thursday. The engine cranked just fine, ran for a few seconds, then died. I tried to start it again, but while it continued to crank, it would "pop" instead of catch and run. It sounded dry.

Someone told me that the ethanol additive in fuel attracts and binds with water and the fuel line could be frozen. I checked on-line, and it seems that the jury is pretty much out. Most sites say that since the fuel system is essentially "closed", there would be no significant additional moisture drawn in. However, one site mentioned that if fuel with the ethanol additive is allowed to sit for several days, the water/ethanol will settle to the bottom (being heavier than the gasoline) and be delivered disproportionately into the fuel system and cause rough running.

Who's right? And should I be using dry gas in the cars that are not run every day?

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Well I don't know much on fuel additives and their chemical makeup. But I do know that a partialy filled tank can get condesation build up inside. Or if when fueling you find a hose with snow on it, that can introduce water to the system.
My advice is try isopropyl/gas line antifreeze. It helps remove any moisture between fills. Throw one or two in to start then treat with every fill. It's not that expensive. PLus if the car sits for awhile. Keep it full.

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Be safe and God Speed,
Reverend Matthew "The Dragon" Koscielski
!!!Proud to be a gear grinder!!!

Faith, Hope, Love. The Greatest is Love 1 Corinthians 13:13

Can anyone tell me what the middle peddle in my truck does, cause i never use it.

Always use gas line antifreeze where condensation can quickly form.

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Thanks, guys!

The car started just fine this afternoon after sitting in the sunlight for most of the day. We took it to the gas station, added a bottle of dry gas, and topped off the tank. Drove it for a while, and then home again. Hopefully, this fixes it! (I like quick and easy fixes. )

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