Thread: Catalytic Converter Damage with 87 Octane use?
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Old Jan 11, 2016 | 04:24 PM
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onehundred80
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Default Re: Catalytic Converter Damage with 87 Octane use?
Originally Posted by Larry Hitze
I just had a question for the more mechanical savvy individuals here. I am in a discussion on the
facebook Crossfire page and a guy maintains that prolonged use of 87 octane gasoline will plug up and ruin the catalytic converters. Of course I maintain that it will not but only cause the computer to adjust for it and you would have a little less horsepower. I looked through my service manual and all I could find was that contaminated gas, oil and antifreeze would cause it damage. He said that replacing converters is what he does so of course he is right. It all started because some one put 5 gallons of 87 octane in the tank and wanted to know what to do about it. Any thoughts? Thanks
We have had people run their car on 87 for extended periods of time they reported no problem. That proves nothing but I would say that if the engine knocked too much and the ignition could not counteract it then damage may occur to the engine only. Too much sulfur in the fuel, or lead would damage the cats. The CE light comes on in some cases of a risk to the cats occurring.
Five gallons would not cause any damage, I am sure lots of us have had the wrong fuel from the tanks at gas stations.
Mid grades are often blends from two tanks at the pumps and equipment fails.
My vote says no problem.
 
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