unleaded or additive
Posted: Thu Aug 11, 2016 12:37 pm
Hi could someone tell me if I need to run my 318 (1600 engine )on unleaded with a fuel additive,or is it ok to just run unleaded fuel?
technically i think you may not need a lead additive. tetraethyl lead in the fuel helps the cylinders operate at cooler temps and helps provide lubrication for the valve stems / guide seals. Depends what year your e21 is though, as I had a vw beetle which was 1973 and had unleaded cylinder heads from build. So I doubt very much that your e21 required leaded fuel from build as it commenced late '75.
You could put lead additive in the fuel though to help your motor if you are overly concerned. You'll get odd deposits on the plugs and possibly fouling once in a while though.