What Fuel's best for the SS

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04-01-2008, 12:59 PM

#31

irloyal

Senior Member

Join Date: 03-30-2008

Location: Texas

Posts: 278

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lone Ranger

You don't really have to do all that. The electronic spark control is always on the job, knock sensors constantly monitoring for spark knock. At the first detection of spark knock, the ESC steps in and retards timing until the knock sensors no longer report knock.

The corvette computer retards for knocks under a detection routine, but it also learns fuel mapping so you do have to re-learn the settings when switching fuel.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lone Ranger

As mentioned by Chevymgr, no way would I run regular or even mid grade 89 in a turbo engine labeled for premium recommended. The pressures are so much greater in a forced induction engine that a slight ESC hiccup that might have no consequences in a normally aspirated motor can have damaging consequences in a turbo'd motor or a super charged motor.

With forged pistons, rods, hi chrome steel crank and sodium filled valves, the engine ought to be able to handle some pre-ignition. That said, I would not be pushing the car hard on anything under a 91 octane fuel.

FWIW I'll do some 91 and 89 octane experiments and determine my $$/mile cost to determine which fuel I'll use. With the 'vette using Valero 87 octane I only drop one mpg, no knocking, and find it a lot more economical with driving around town.