Thread: Fuel Grade
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Old 03-23-2008, 11:43 PM
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Default Re: Fuel Grade

If I am wrong here, please help clear up my misconceptions: My understanding is that the Octane rating has to do with the additives in the gasoline that SLOW the explosion in the cylinder, creating a 'longer' burn.

I have heard that there is the possibility that this longer burn can translate tto greater heat buildup in the engine. If the engine is designed specifically to get rid of this heat, then we're OK with using the higer Octane rating. However, if the engine is not designed to take the heat, Problems(tm) can ensue.

Since I live in Phoenix, I'm a little nervous about any situation that creates extra heat under the hood, I've seen too many "China Syndrome" incidents along the road as it is to tempt fate. ;-)

I just traded in a Mercedes E320 that required Premium, so the sticker shock at the pump was a 'motivating factor' when replacement was due.
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