Python Octane

[SuperAirIan]

I have a 2001 SAN with the 8.2L (502). I have been using 91 Octane (Premium here). Can/should I be lowering that down to....maybe... 87 (Regular)?

[Nautiquehunter]

I have always used the cheapest gas I could find in all my trucks ,boats and cars . My Harleys don't like regular and I use non ethanol in all small engines. Try the regular gas and see if there is a difference?

[charlesml3]

I just looked at the owner's manual for an 01 SAN and it says 89 octane minimum.

-Charles

[2001 Python]

I just run 93 ... probably a waste of money, but rather be safe.

[Viper_Freak1]

Since your python is a higher performance engine than most, it’s probably a good idea to run premium. Especially since it’s an older engine. It’s worth a few extra dollars every fill up for peace of mind, in my opinion.


Sent from my iPhone using PLT Nautique

[SuperAirIan]

Well...I guess I'll stick to the Premium then. Buy-the-way, a "Premium" tank-full is a $25 dollar up-charge around here.

[charlesml3]

There is no compelling reason to run anything higher than what the manufacturer recommends. Premium is only "premium" because it contains more of the additive Octane. Octane is a compound that helps higher-performance engines (especially those with forced induction) to deal with pre-ignition. That's it. It's not "premium" because it's better than 89 or 87 Octane fuel. It just has more Octane in it.

-Charles

[scootdogydog]

I didn't think that the 502 has the compression ratio to justify the higher octane. I didn't see a performance issue or pinging with different octanes.

[SuperAirIan]

I don't have a 2001 PCM 502 manual. I'm given to understand (from PCM) that there never was one put out. The best they could send me was a 1992-1995 PCM Owners Manual and a PCM Parts Manual 1975-2001. I do have a 2003 manual...but thats for the Baby Python.