Save a little cash at the pump

[SwoopSJ]

Gas prices are now beginning to come down a little, but I unfortunately never thought to post this before.  Along with maintaining correct tire pressure you can save money by not pumping your gas full tilt.  This probably doesn't apply to every pump, as some are noticeably slower than others, but here is the short explanation.  When the pump is operating too quickly, cavitation occurs (tiny bubbles forming in the liquid gasoline).  This is due to the vapor pressure of the gasoline exceeding the external force(s) which maintain its liquid phase at stp.  When this liquid to vapor change occurs, while pumping, the volume of the gasoline is substantially increased (can't remember the exact factor), it then decreases when these bubbles return to liquid in your tank.  To make a long story short(er), when you pump too fast, cavitation causes you to pay for gasoline that you aren't actually recieving.  Also, if you can, buy gas during the cooler times of the day (morning & evening) as temp affects volume too.  Most pumps are now volume adjusted to 60 F, but every penny counts.  Now you can afford more ammo!

Swoop

[tombogan03884]

Good points !

[dj454]

That makes sense I'll try that.

[ericire12]

Probably just another internet rumor....... Did you hear about this in a forwarded email?

[Hazcat]

If you've ever ridden a motorcycle you know it's true.  I have 'overfilled' the tank on a MC this way.  Lawnmower. too.

[Sponsor]

[MikeBjerum]

My understanding is that new style pumps used since the late 70's no longer have the cavitation issues, so trust that is taken care of through certification and testing.  Up here in the beautiful state of Minnesota we don't worry about temp except for over fill.  All our tanks are three feet underground (at the top, and then you remember that they are ten feet in diameter ... they are cool year round).  If you top your car off at 7 PM (as the heat of the day is starting to wain) and drive two blocks to park in the garage you will find a gas spot on the floor within two hours.  If you fill your bike or a gas can in the evening you will feel the cold, and on a humid day you will get your tank covered with condensation.

I put more faith in driving sensibly and not spilling by trying to top off (allow the automatic shut off to shut off no more than three times).

[SwoopSJ]

Probably just another internet rumor....... Did you hear about this in a forwarded email?

No.  One of the degrees I hold is in petrochemical operations.  I don't utilize that information much anymore, but it does come in handy every now and then.

Swoop

[ericire12]

No.  One of the degrees I hold is in petrochemical operations.  I don't utilize that information much anymore, but it does come in handy every now and then.

Swoop

Wow!  That shut me the hell up real quick like!

[tombogan03884]

Wow!  That shut me the hell up real quick like!

Don't feel bad, I can't even pronounce it 

[ericire12]

Don't feel bad, I can't even pronounce it 

Now thats funny, right there.