Race Gas Vs. Octane Booster
 

I found some 110 octane race gas where I live, but it's $4.30 a gallon!

I have been using NOS Octane Booster and really haven't noticed that much of an increase in performance. I have heard that it is very hard to raise the octane levels more than a couple of points with octane booster.

Have any of you used race gas? If so, do you notice much difference?

My car is a highly modded TII.

How many times does this type of question come up?

Unless you're experiencing detonation, there is no need for a higher octane fuel. Period. The octane number has no bearing what-so-ever on a fuels potential to create power. It is only an indicator of the fuels ability to resist pre-ignition. If you're running a ton of boost there may be a need for a bit more octane. But, as you've already said, you didn't notice a difference with the octane booster so you most likely won't go a bit quicker with 110. Another point to ponder is that many race fuels contain lead. The leaded fuels will kill an O2 sensor in record time.

Save your money. Run premium pump fuel.

Chris

I thought the ECU advanced the timing until the knock sensor singaled to limit the advance. Higher octane then gives more advance before pinging. Lead is a problem.

That's very true to a point. However, using an NA as an example, there is an octane parameter that every engine is designed to work around. The NAs are designed to run on 87. If you run 92 you won't get anymore advance than you would running a good 87 fuel. Further, I know my 86 wiring does not have a knock sensor. Therefore timing would remain static regardless of octane.

Another example is the Z28 I used to have. The 10.5:1 mtor is designed to run best on 92 octane. It would run, without audible pinging, on 87. It wouldn't run as good but it would run. That's what a knock sensor will do. Running anything higher than 92 wouldn't make the thing go any faster because I was already getting full timing advance with the 92 octane.

Chris

correct!

The reason I asked this question in the first place was to determine if it would help when I'm running higher boost (14-15 PSI).
I think you answered my question. I won't go any faster, but it could save my engine from grenading!

Exactly. Ideally, you need to consult with a reputable tuner to determine your octane requirements.


Chris