|
|
Post by Jeff Shadoan on Feb 27, 2008 17:32:00 GMT -8
Here are the details we've been able to put together regarding the VP110 fuel issue. Note: This does not apply to Shifters, TaG or Rotax. These classes do not use VP110. Issues with the standard VP110- The VP110 fuel issues are throughout the West (not just San Diego). Sometimes the color is not correct and sometimes it tests positive for other chemicals.
- Standard VP110 is sold in bulk to distributors. Bulk is 8,500 gallon tankers to 28,000 gallon rail cars. The bulk VP110 is transported by truck or train from the VP fuel plant in Texas to distributors. The distributors then add the dyes and repackage the fuel into containers (5 gallon and 55 gallon drums). These repackaged containers are often re-distributed and may end up virtually anywhere.
- There is a lack of consistency by distributors with how the bulk fuel is packaged and the specific dyes that are used. Chemicals in some dyes can test different. These issues are what can cause standard VP110 to fail the fuel tests.
VP110 “Karting” vs. VP110- VP110 Karting has the word “Karting” affixed or printed on the label.
- VP110 Karting is pre-tested and certified to pass the testing criteria used in karting. This is done at the VP fuel plant prior to packaging and distribution.
- VP110 Karting is not available to distributors in bulk (i.e. tankers). This is to prevent the issues seen with standard VP110 (see above).
- VP110 Karting has the same octane and specific gravity of standard VP110. The “Karting” version is formulated to mix better with 2-cyle oil and the dyes used will not trip testing equipment for chemicals.
VP110 “Karting” Availability- The San Diego VP distributor (SOCO Fuels) has ordered (72) 5-gallon cans of VP110 Karting to supply the needs of SDKA racers.
- They should receive the VP110 Karting on Monday March 3rd.
- SOCO is located in El Cajon at 145 Vernon Way, El Cajon, CA 92020. Their hours are M-F 7:00 to 5:00.
- Any San Diego VP dealer can order VP110 Karting from SOCO and have it delivered within two days. So if you have a dealer you normally buy from you can have them bring in some VP110 "Karting" for you.
- VP110 Karting is the same cost as standard VP110 (per the distributor).
|
|
|
|
Post by Jeff Shadoan on Feb 27, 2008 17:36:06 GMT -8
Beginning with the March 9th race, the tech inspection procedures will be calibrated to VP110 "Karting".
VP110 Karting is the only version sealed at the VP fuel plant and certified to pass the fuel tests.
There are too many variables inherent with the bulk distribution of standard VP110 so you can not be assured it will pass the fuel tests.
If you choose to still use standard VP110 you risk the chance that it may not pass. If it fails the fuel tests we will have to issue a DQ. To avoid this we must suggest that racers purchase VP110 Karting. If you still have standard VP110 we recommend using it for testing and practice.
All racers can have their fuel tested before running it to see if it will pass tech.
|
|
|
|
Post by Jeff Shadoan on Feb 27, 2008 17:42:08 GMT -8
When buying VP110 Karting make sure it has the word "Karting" printed or affixed on the label. The wrong fuel could be delivered to your dealer, they could accidentally get the cans mixed up, etc.
|
|
sofbak
Junior Member
Posts: 30
|
Post by sofbak on Feb 27, 2008 18:11:00 GMT -8
Will Tech be running tests on fuel in addition to testing done before, or is it the same specific gravity test? I guess I'm trying to figure out if the can I bought prior to the last race (and passed previous checks) will now fail if there are new tests used.
|
|
nick
New Member
Posts: 5
|
Post by nick on Feb 27, 2008 19:20:16 GMT -8
we should have a grace period given for drivers who are getting rid of old fuel and transitioning to the "karting" 110.
we run 2 karts and have a whole bunch left to burn up, and it doesnt make sense to throw it all away to go buy more. the new fuel should not be mandatory until after the march 9th race to allow the drivers to get rid of their normal 110.
|
|
|
|
Post by Jeff Shadoan on Feb 27, 2008 19:21:00 GMT -8
Will Tech be running tests on fuel in addition to testing done before, or is it the same specific gravity test? I guess I'm trying to figure out if the can I bought prior to the last race (and passed previous checks) will now fail if there are new tests used. There will not be any new tests. Tech does check more than specific gravity. There is also a color test and chemical test (oxidizers, etc.). At the February 10th race Tech did not perform all the normal tests due to these issues. So fuel that passed in February may not pass in March. Fuel purchased from a dealer last month may not be from the same fuel source as fuel purchased previously (due to the "bulk" issues mentioned above). Only VP110 Karting is certified to pass the fuel tests. |
|
|
|
Post by Brian on Feb 27, 2008 19:56:42 GMT -8
I wonder how my little Chevy Colorado will run on 110  . I know my old truck when burn clean, inside the tail pipe would be a nice light gray and smelled great. I just bought a 5 gallon can of 110 before the first race and would like to finish it off before the change is made. I believe we should give until the April race to be sure that everyone has a chance to get there hands on the new fuel. Do you have any idea if the cost is going to change for the new fuel? |
|
|
|
Post by Mike Campbell on Feb 28, 2008 20:38:26 GMT -8
I wouldn't use your old fuel in your car if you have already added the oil, I have tried that and you will be cleaning or changing your plugs way more than you want. Still use it in the lawn mower, but it only has one plug. It seems cost will change initially depending on your routine, because if you could just get what you needed before, you will now be buying more at a time and storing the fuel yourself for the next race or races. Apparently if you already have regular VP 110 you won't be able to race with it so yes that will be a loss. If this is the way it is and I can show up with the right fuel, that's OK, I'm looking forward to race day.
|
|
|
|
Post by kwright47 on Feb 28, 2008 21:44:55 GMT -8
If there is about a gallon of VP110 left in my tank on race day, are you able fill up the tank with VP110 "Karting" mixing the two?
|
|
|
|
Post by Jim Abbott on Feb 28, 2008 23:35:28 GMT -8
well if the case is that we are going to vp110 karting fuel, the by laws need to be changed due to the fact is that the by-laws state the spec fuel is vp110, it does not specify vp110 karting. I feel that the racers that all ready bought vp110 fuel should be able to use it with out getting a DQ. This is just my 2 cents worth and Im sure everyone will agree with this.
|
|
nick
New Member
Posts: 5
|
Post by nick on Mar 3, 2008 19:48:27 GMT -8
Can We Please Get some clarification on the deadline for the new fuel?
Im sure there are more drivers who still have non karting 110 fuel that needs to be burned.
|
|
|
|
Post by Jeff Shadoan on Mar 3, 2008 23:53:46 GMT -8
The Board rediscussed and for March the fuel will be tested the same as February. If you have fuel left over from the February race and it passed Tech then it has a high chance of passing in March. Tech is available to test fuel in the morning by request.
Beginning with the April race the testing equipment will be calibrated to VP110 labeled "Karting" as a pure test source.
Again - these are both VP110 fuel (same octane and specific gravity). VP110 without the Karting label will pass the tests IF it is packaged properly, the correct dye is used and nothing else is mixed. However, due to the issues listed above there is too much inconsistency in the standard VP110 fuel supply. VP110 "Karting" is pre-tested and certified before packaging at the VP fuel plant so this is the best way of knowing that your fuel should pass Tech.
The reason Tech made the issue known and SDKA is suggesting the use of VP110 "Karting" is to help prevent fuel related DQ's.
|
|
|
|
Post by Jeff Shadoan on Mar 4, 2008 0:03:19 GMT -8
SOCO received the VP110 "Karting" Monday so availability is no problem. The price is the same as regular VP110.
As a reminder you can buy it directly from SOCO (address and hours listed above) or you can have any VP dealer order from SOCO for delivery in 1-2 days.
|
|
|
|
Post by Jeff Shadoan on Mar 4, 2008 1:04:02 GMT -8
well if the case is that we are going to vp110 karting fuel, the by laws need to be changed due to the fact is that the by-laws state the spec fuel is vp110, it does not specify vp110 karting. I feel that the racers that all ready bought vp110 fuel should be able to use it with out getting a DQ. This is just my 2 cents worth and Im sure everyone will agree with this. Jim, This isn't a change in the spec fuel. It is still VP110. The difference is the one labeled "Karting" is packaged at the VP fuel plant for tighter controls (vs bulk). Prior to packaging it's tested & certified to pass karting fuel tests. The issues with VP110 bulk result in inconsistent supply and can cause it to fail karting fuel tests. Tech informed everyone of the VP110 "Karting" to help with potential DQ issues. |
|
|
|
Post by Mike Campbell on Mar 4, 2008 18:53:13 GMT -8
It looks like the new fuel has finally made it to San Diego. I was told I would be able to get it from my supplier, Fibertech, on Thursday. I'm not sure if they will be stocking it or it is a special order, so if you cannot get to Soco before the weekend ( I believe they are not open on Saturday ) you should call your supplier and make sure they will have it when you are able to go and get it.
|
|
. I know my old truck when burn clean, inside the tail pipe would be a nice light gray and smelled great. 
