Do I need lead additive ?
Lead Driver
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 8,813
Likes: 13
From: Littleton, New Hampshire
Originally Posted by dans52F1
I recently purchased a 52 F1 with the six cylinder engine.
Question is, do I need to add lead additive when running this engine?
Question is, do I need to add lead additive when running this engine?
Vern
Senior User
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 298
Likes: 0
From: Albany NY
I had recalled reading an excellent article on gasoline where this question was dicussed. After looking all over the web to find it again, I found it on this site at the bottom of the Tech Articles, GASOLINE FAQ . The need for lead additives to combat valve seat wear is found at the beginning of Part 4. Says its mostly a problem for engines heavily loaded and running at high speed. I think a 100 HP engine pulling a heavy old truck with stock gears at (or close) to todays highway speeds probably qualifies.
There seem to be a number of lead substitute products available. Anybody know if some are better than others or have a favorite brand?
There seem to be a number of lead substitute products available. Anybody know if some are better than others or have a favorite brand?
Fleet Owner
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 25,409
Likes: 5,420
From: Central PA
Long before the forum was in this format (it used to be in an email format) we had this discussion. I think that is where the "gasoline FAQ" came from. I too was concerned about the lack of lead in today's gas. But from the discussions several years ago the concensus was exactly what dumptrucker said: trucks that carry heavy loads and are run hard should add lead. Running our stock trucks with out a load, even at highway speeds would not constitute a heavy load.
About 10-15 years ago I used to add lead to my gas, but had gotten away from it. I have not noticed any ill effects with out the lead since then. But of course it is up to the individual.
abe 54 F-100
About 10-15 years ago I used to add lead to my gas, but had gotten away from it. I have not noticed any ill effects with out the lead since then. But of course it is up to the individual.
abe 54 F-100
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 344
Likes: 0
From: Lancaster, So Carolina
having confronted an number of veteran engine rebuilders on this, most around here say there is enough hardening done on the seat area by years of running for most of us weekend warriors. If you are a high mileage or daily driver, getting the seat inserts when the heads are off for another reason is not a bad idea
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Elder User
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 955
Likes: 1
From: St. Louis USA
I haven't bothered with lead additives, but then I don't drive (yet) more than a couple hundred miles a year. I have been using gas stabilizer, though. It seems like whereever I've seen this question, half the folks say use the lead additive and the other half say don't bother.
My cheapass theory is that until I need major engine work, I won't worry about the valves or lead additives (hopefully one not causing the other).
My cheapass theory is that until I need major engine work, I won't worry about the valves or lead additives (hopefully one not causing the other).
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