Fuel Octane

["content22207" <brobertson@xxxx>]

Much confusion about octane. Measures ability to compress fuel mixture
without premature detonation. Does NOT measure "burnability" or any
other characteristic.

Stock PRV is 8.8:1 compression ratio. Certainly higher than some cars
produced today, but not high enough to require premium grade. I shoot
my spark a little closer to TDC than factory spec (high energy
ignition), so burn 89 octane to avoid ocassional valve clatter.

For comparison, have a 1969 Lincoln with 11:1 compression. Will not
run on less than 97 octane (added by the bottle).

Bill Robertson
#5939