lead in fuel for 82 OMC

[Long Islander]

Hello,<br />I inherited a 19' 1982 OMC Sterndrive Renken 2.5l 120 4cyl. I was told to add lead to the fuel. Can anyone tell me if I should do this and why can't I use strait gas. Also how can I tell the capacity of the fuel tank is.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[JB]

Re: lead in fuel for 82 OMC

Leaded fuel is not necessary, but it wouldn't do any harm except to the environment.

 

[akriverrat]

Re: lead in fuel for 82 OMC

the lead in fuel cushioned the valves when closing. without it and without hardened seats the valves will recede into the head over time.

 

[Lark40]

Re: lead in fuel for 82 OMC

That argument would have been valid for a thirty five year old engine design.<br /><br />But, hardened valve seats for lead-free engines were in use in all American-sold cars by 1972. His engine is a 1982, so leaded gas should never have been considered.

 

[akriverrat]

Re: lead in fuel for 82 OMC

thanks. i wasn't sure when they started with hardened seats.

 

[Long Islander]

Re: lead in fuel for 82 OMC

Thanks, I'm not going to add lead and see how it runs.

 

[Boatist]

Re: lead in fuel for 82 OMC

Long Islander<br />My car said use unleaded fuel in 1974 but my 1980 OMC 140 also calls for leaded fuel 87 octain. When could no longer get leaded fuel I ask OMC Factory rep if I need to add a lead. He said no should be ok but if started pinging may need to go up in octain.

 

[tmclendon]

Re: lead in fuel for 82 OMC

Check this out:<br /> http://www.chevron.com/prodserv/fuels/bulletin/unld-gas/index.shtml <br /><br />Does anybody have a copy of the referenced OMC Service letter? (Service Letter for General Information #53, August 1985, subject: Gasoline Lead and Alcohol)?<br /><br />Anyway according to Chevron (they should know) there is no problem using unleaded in your engine, or any engine made in 1974 or later.<br /><br />Tom