Low octane, leaded petrol in 3.5V8 from SD1 in 101...

[thermidorthelobster]

I'm thinking about my Africa trip, and thoughts turn to petrol.

My engine is a 3.5V8 from an SD1 - this is the high compression version - running on SU HIF44 carbs.

I've had a punt around on the Internet and in a couple of Africa Overland books and it appears I should expect octane ratings of fuels in North Africa to be consistently <91 and sometimes <86.  Additionally, I shouldn't expect to be able to find Unleaded fuel, with leaded being the norm.

How will this engine cope with this kind of fuel?  Does the fact that it's a high compression engine make a difference over a standard Rover V8?

Thanks,
David

[hobbit]

That leads to another thing on the to carry spares of, plenty of fuel filters

[MuddyMike]

The petrol being leaded is no problem at all. The low octain may result in a bit of pinking but if it gets too bad just retard the timing a little and it will be fine. Adding an extra in line fuel filter and even a water trap would be a good idea, and as has already been said carry spare filters.

MuddyMike

[thermidorthelobster]

Thanks, guys.

The spares bill is running into large numbers already...  I'm thinking of towing a whole nother 101 along behind me, it'll probably be cheaper!

Either that or I could build another 101 with the spares when I get back...

[Range Rover Blues]

I don't agree that just retarding the timing will do the job, it's not that simple.  As a "bodge" why not fit the composite head gaskets which will lower the CR, and if you can get one fit a LC dizzy.  Alternatively you could carry octane boost with you.  I'm surprised that leaded would be 86 octane though, the lead is an octane booster in itself.

If it helps I have a contact who can sell me the additive at wholesale if you buy a significant amount.

[thermidorthelobster]

Thanks, that may help.  I'll do some working out of how much petrol I'll use, and if it seems the best way, I'll let you know.

I'm assuming lowering the CR would reduce power too, and I'm not keen to lose any more!