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Low octane, leaded petrol in 3.5V8 from SD1 in 101...

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thermidorthelobster:
I'm thinking about my Africa trip, and thoughts turn to petrol.

My engine is a 3.5V8 from an SD1 - this is the high compression version - running on SU HIF44 carbs.

I've had a punt around on the Internet and in a couple of Africa Overland books and it appears I should expect octane ratings of fuels in North Africa to be consistently <91 and sometimes <86.  Additionally, I shouldn't expect to be able to find Unleaded fuel, with leaded being the norm.

How will this engine cope with this kind of fuel?  Does the fact that it's a high compression engine make a difference over a standard Rover V8?

Thanks,
David

hobbit:
That leads to another thing on the to carry spares of, plenty of fuel filters :wink:

MuddyMike:
The petrol being leaded is no problem at all. The low octain may result in a bit of pinking but if it gets too bad just retard the timing a little and it will be fine. Adding an extra in line fuel filter and even a water trap would be a good idea, and as has already been said carry spare filters.

MuddyMike

thermidorthelobster:
Thanks, guys.

The spares bill is running into large numbers already...  I'm thinking of towing a whole nother 101 along behind me, it'll probably be cheaper!

Either that or I could build another 101 with the spares when I get back...

Range Rover Blues:
I don't agree that just retarding the timing will do the job, it's not that simple.  As a "bodge" why not fit the composite head gaskets which will lower the CR, and if you can get one fit a LC dizzy.  Alternatively you could carry octane boost with you.  I'm surprised that leaded would be 86 octane though, the lead is an octane booster in itself.

If it helps I have a contact who can sell me the additive at wholesale if you buy a significant amount.

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