Stephen Ristroph wrote:
>
> Has anyone on the list used gas additives to clean out the fuel
> system of a Triumph. I am talking about the name brand stuff like STP
> or others. Do these products effect SU carbs and other fuel system
> hardware (in abad way)? I am running 89 octane gas in my car and runs fine.
>I just thought that
> using an additive to clean out the system might help the car. Thanks
>
> Stephen Ristroph
> 1972 Triumph Spitfire IV
Stephen,
About every 6000 miles, at tire rotation time, I add a product called
Chevron Techron (or a product that contains Techron). Look for any
product, really, that promises to clean the back side of intake valves.
Fuels today run very clean, but deposits on the back side of valves can
cause performance, and actual starting problems. If you've replaced fuel
lines lately, within the past 5 years, decomposition should not be a
problem. Today's hoses are designed to be compatable with newer fuels and
additives. I've used Techron products with my SUs, with no problems. I
doubt if STP or other similar products would cause problems. Anyone?
Also, every month or so, I add a half-bottle (remember, Spits only gots
an 8 gallon tank) of Isopropyl (not Methanol) alcohol to the fuel tank to
absorb accumulated water. Isopropyl will mix with the water, blend with
the fuel, and be burned in the combustion process. Methanol will absorb
the water, but then the water/alcohol mix will still be in the bottom of
the tank, unable to mix with the gasoline. Read the labels, the isopropyl
is only a few cents more per bottle.
Hope that helps,
Charlie B.
Spitfire Pilot
|