I was told to put my drum on a pallet,so I do .For what I don't know.

I only open the drum to get fuel NOT to smell! LOL .LIke in GA it is allways hot and humid in New Orleans even in December we have hot days.

that white stuff in the carb is what happens when water and race fuel mixes.been there done that.

Is race fuel more hydroscopic than pump gas ?

I wouldn't think so, but you could use a water dryer such as alcohol, but if it's a small tank it would be safer to just drain it IMO.