For decades, a persistent automotive myth has circulated, claiming that adding mothballs to a gas tank can enhance octane levels and improve engine performance. This practice gained popularity in the mid-20th century when octane boosters were not widely available. However, with the advent of modern gasoline formulations and stringent fuel regulations, the use of mothballs as an octane enhancer has become questionable. This article examines the validity of this myth, exploring the potential benefits and risks associated with adding mothballs to a gas tank, drawing upon reputable sources such as MotorTrend, Team Camaro Tech, and Eng-Tips.
Key Facts
- Limited octane enhancement: Mothballs made from naphthalene were used in the past to raise octane levels in low-quality fuels. However, with modern gasoline, mothballs provide little to no benefit in terms of octane enhancement.
- Potential engine damage: Using mothballs in a gas tank can have negative effects on the engine. It can lead to clogged jets and injectors, engine carbon deposits, and degradation of rubber seals.
- Lack of chemical testing: While there have been experiments conducted, such as on the TV show “Myth Busters,” no actual chemical testing has been done to determine if mothballs raise octane levels. Therefore, the claim that mothballs increase octane remains unproven.
- Other negative effects: Mothballs may have additional adverse effects on the engine, although the exact nature of these effects is not well-documented.
Limited Octane Enhancement
Mothballs were traditionally made from naphthalene, a hydrocarbon compound known for its high octane rating. Naphthalene’s presence in mothballs led to the belief that adding them to gasoline could raise the fuel’s octane level, resulting in improved engine performance. However, modern gasoline formulations already contain additives that enhance octane, making the addition of mothballs redundant. Moreover, the amount of naphthalene in mothballs is often insufficient to have a noticeable impact on octane levels.
Potential Engine Damage
Using mothballs in a gas tank can have detrimental effects on an engine. Naphthalene, the primary component of mothballs, can clog fuel injectors and carburetors, leading to engine performance issues. Additionally, the combustion of naphthalene can produce carbon deposits within the engine, causing further problems. Furthermore, mothballs can degrade rubber seals and gaskets in the fuel system, potentially leading to leaks.
Lack of Chemical Testing
Despite anecdotal claims and experiments conducted on shows like “Myth Busters,” there is a lack of concrete chemical evidence to support the assertion that mothballs increase octane levels. While some experiments have shown a smoother engine operation after adding mothballs, these observations are often subjective and lack scientific rigor. Without comprehensive chemical testing, the claim that mothballs enhance octane remains unsubstantiated.
Other Negative Effects
Aside from the potential engine damage and lack of octane enhancement, mothballs may have other adverse effects on a vehicle. The strong odor of mothballs can permeate the cabin, causing discomfort to occupants. Additionally, mothballs can attract insects, leading to further problems.
Conclusion
Based on the available evidence, there is no credible support for the claim that adding mothballs to a gas tank enhances octane levels or improves engine performance. In fact, using mothballs in a gas tank can have negative consequences, including engine damage, clogged fuel injectors, carbon deposits, and degraded rubber seals. Therefore, it is strongly advised against using mothballs as an octane booster or fuel additive.
FAQs
Do mothballs increase octane levels in gasoline?
No, mothballs do not significantly increase octane levels in modern gasoline. Modern gasoline formulations already contain additives that enhance octane, making the addition of mothballs redundant.
Can mothballs damage my engine?
Yes, using mothballs in a gas tank can damage your engine. Naphthalene, the primary component of mothballs, can clog fuel injectors and carburetors, leading to engine performance issues. Additionally, the combustion of naphthalene can produce carbon deposits within the engine, causing further problems.
Is there any scientific evidence to support the claim that mothballs enhance octane?
No, there is no credible scientific evidence to support the claim that mothballs enhance octane levels or improve engine performance. While some anecdotal evidence and experiments have been conducted, these lack scientific rigor and are often subjective.
What are the other negative effects of using mothballs in a gas tank?
Aside from the potential engine damage and lack of octane enhancement, mothballs may have other adverse effects on a vehicle. The strong odor of mothballs can permeate the cabin, causing discomfort to occupants. Additionally, mothballs can attract insects, leading to further problems.
What should I do if I accidentally put mothballs in my gas tank?
If you accidentally put mothballs in your gas tank, it is important to act quickly to minimize potential damage. First, do not start your engine. Then, contact a qualified mechanic or towing service to have your vehicle towed to a repair shop. The mechanic will need to drain the gas tank and flush the fuel system to remove the mothballs and any contaminants.
Are there any alternatives to mothballs for boosting octane levels?
Yes, there are several commercially available octane boosters that can be used to increase octane levels in gasoline. These boosters typically contain ingredients like toluene, xylene, or ethanol, which are known to enhance octane. However, it is important to use these boosters sparingly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid potential engine damage.
Can I use mothballs to repel insects from my car?
No, using mothballs to repel insects from your car is not recommended. Mothballs contain naphthalene, which is a toxic substance that can be harmful to humans and animals. Additionally, the strong odor of mothballs can be unpleasant and may cause discomfort to occupants.
Are there any other uses for mothballs besides repelling moths?
Yes, mothballs can be used for various purposes other than repelling moths. Some common uses include:
- Deodorizing musty areas, such as closets or basements
- Preventing mildew and mold growth in damp areas
- Repelling rodents and other pests
- Preserving natural history specimens, such as insects and plants
It is important to use mothballs with caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid potential health risks.