Re: oil, gas options?
Synthetic is fine, after all the Germans invented it for Arctic conditions, makes sure even cold oil can flow properly through small passages Not so sure about the usefulness in Florida though.
As to 91 octane, that is sooo last century for a n/a engine and can put down to the three valve design which needs two spark plugs both in the rong place. Modern engines of the same displacement and compression run on 87 because they have four valves and one plug in the sweet spot (and VVT i&e which helps. My tow car has a DOHC 3.6 like that with 290 hp, 10.25 c.r. and is happy on 87 (or moonshine)).
The major improvements I have seen in the last decade are in increased power and combustion control. The next step requires direct injection and near diesel compression ratios.
For now I fill at 1/2 tank and alternate 93 (Sam's) and 89 (Hess) to average 91. No sluggishness noted. On a long trip with a light load (guaranteed with the absurdly low gearing - 6th is the same OAR as 4th was in my Fiero GT)) I suspect 87 is fine.
ps low octane/high temp/high load results in detonation which can burn valves, put holes in pistons and make everything in the combustion chamber look nasty. I suspect O2 sensor failure would be a secondary effect when the oil burning starts.
Last edited by Padgett; Mar 30, 2014 at 09:59 PM.