System Description

Flexible Fuel engine control systems allow engines to run on mixtures of methanol and unleaded gasoline. The system allows optimum engine operation with various mixtures of up to 85 percent methanol 15 percent unleaded gasoline. A Methanol Concentration Sensor (MCS), containing a microprocessor, is used to sample fuel as it is pumped to the fuel injection system and determine the percentage of methanol and unleaded gasoline. This sensor sends a real-time correction signal to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM then adjusts ignition and fuel injection functions to provide optimum engine performance. In the event of MCS failure, the PCM remembers the last correction signal and will use that information to enable a limp home mode. Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFV) use unique methanol-compatible components. These items may be identified by either, a green tag or sticker or the component itself will be colored green. Certain gasoline only (uncolored) components may appear identical to these FFV components. Under no circumstances may these components be interchanged.