Leaded fuel only

[lestorx]

I have an 84-85 Comp TS6m with a 351W.

The manual and valve covers both say to only use leaded gas. What do you guys think?

It would be a pita to have to add lead additive every fill up, but if that's what it takes...

I have rebuilt the carb and have been trying to get it tuned right. I have all of the old gas out, new plugs, fuel filter.

Thanks

[Mani]

I heard that 89 octane was made as a substitute for leaded gas. I'm sure someone here can shoot that down or confirm it.

[fastab]

Lead was used in gas to help prevent detonation, it also acted as a lubricant. Old muscle cars had high compression ratios and were able to do so because of the lead in the fuel, If the boat has a high comp ratio then you will want to run as high a octane fuel as you can. They use other additives in todays fuel to help prevent detonation.