Think you'd pass emissions if you put a gallon or two of E85 into your near empty tank before getting it inspected? Would this brief period hurt a gasoline fuel system in any way? Just curious because I have heard that E85 cuts way down on C02 ratings, or something.

I don't know much about E85, so pardon the naiveness here, but it was just an idea.

I don't know of anyone who has gotten real-life data on it. The ethanol would have some predicable effects: 1) Absorb any water in the system; 2) clean gasoline and other residue from the system (clogged fuel filters often reported soon after first used); 3) lean out the system.

#3 has been a point of theoretical debate. Combustion temps could rise, raising NOx emissions. Others say temps would be lower.

So, want to be the first to try it?

i heard of people doing it that way but id try a bottle of seafoam first worked to pass my car.

Bringing this from the dead. My first TA was autrocious at passing emissions. The HC's were through the roof, like 12X more than they should be. At nearly empty tank I filled the car with e85 and she passed. I did it two more times. So, it does work. I would also use denatured alcohol incase you have severe issues.