lead replacement / octane booster

stuart · Post by **stuart** » 11 Oct 2008 11:14

Given the age of my bike, should I be using Lead Substitute (ie valvemaster) and / or octane booster pls? I'm told that current unleaded is the equivalent of 2 start in Octane ratings, whereas Morinis were probably designed for 4 star?

Anyone regularly use Shell high octane petrol (which definitely improves the performance of my BMW car)?

Thanks for advice.... Stuart

neil · Post by **neil** » 11 Oct 2008 15:31

There used to be an article on the NLM website about this but it doesn't seem to be there anymore. Personally I don't bother, my bike runs fine on standard unleaded and unless you are doing high mileages I don't think you need to worry too much about valve wear.
Neil.

EVguru · Post by **EVguru** » 12 Oct 2008 18:39

The seats stand up pretty well because they've work hardened in service. If you had to re-cut them, then an additive might be advisable.

Alex recommended I run Shell Optimax (now V Power) and the engine certainly feels crisper on it, but it's fine on the ordinary when I have to use it. The fuel testing standards have changed a bit over the years and modern fuel is a little better than the published octane figures would sugest.