Do I need to use lead substitute?

[macj1326]

Hi,

I'm new to boating and just bought a 1981 speed boat. When rummaging around the storage compartments I found a lead substitute and I am wondering if I need to use that in my gas or if it would be fine to just pour in unleaded low octane gas from a gas station. What are the perks of using or not using this additive?

It would be greatly appreciated!

Mark


1981 OMC 3.8 V6 I/O stringer

 

[Daviet]

Re: Do I need to use lead substitute?

You should be able to use pump gas.

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Do I need to use lead substitute?

OMC recommended unleaded gas for that engine
Minimum octane of 87

 

[macj1326]

Re: Do I need to use lead substitute?

Thank you two very much. So much to learn in boating!

 

[jtybt]

Re: Do I need to use lead substitute?

As a general rule of thumb for points type distributor and compression under 9:1.

Keep your total advance to 28* @ 3000 RPM for 87 octane

30* @ 3000 for 89 octane

and 32* @ 3000 for 91 octane

 

[Polar_Bus]

Re: Do I need to use lead substitute?

Hi,

I'm new to boating and just bought a 1981 speed boat. When rummaging around the storage compartments I found a lead substitute and I am wondering if I need to use that in my gas or if it would be fine to just pour in unleaded low octane gas from a gas station. What are the perks of using or not using this additive?

It would be greatly appreciated!

Mark


1981 OMC 3.8 V6 I/O stringer

Leaded fuels back in the 70's were engineered to use the lead content to lubricate the valve guides, and lube/protect the face of the valve seats. Engines now have been re-engineered to not need the lead additive. I would suggest you check your engine VIN to verify you do in fact have a 1981 (or newer) model engine. If you find you have an engine mfg'ed from the 70's, then you will need some type of lead additive, (or an old skool trick is to add Mystery Oil instead of lead). To keep the valves lubed.

 

[wca_tim]

Re: Do I need to use lead substitute?

marvels (mysery oil) or sea foam (actually very similar lubricant base) works, but can foul plugs if you get out of hand. both are definately better for the environment than putting the lead in...