leaded fuel

[kf4anm]

i noticed last night when i pulled my side covers off the xj that each contains information stickers. the one giving the motor specifics listed the recomended fuel as regular (leaded). this sounded reasonable since leaded fuel was still available in the early 80's. anyone use a lead additive in their xs or xj these days? i usually burn unleaded with a tank or premium every now and again. at 31 leaded fuel was just about done by time my driving career started so i have no experience with it. whats the scoop?

[skids]

These bikes do not need leaded fuel. They do not need premium fuel either, unless it is to prevent pinging. I like to use "middle grade" fuel in one of my bikes for that reason. I suspect it pings for a problem other than too-high-compression issues, but it makes me feel better using it...

[Jerry]

I've ben running my XJ on regular unleaded (82 - 85 octane, depending on state...) for going on 5 years now, 40,000+ plus miles, with no ill effects. About the only thing I add to the gas is a chemical additive that goes by the name of Seafoam, a product designed to help clean or keep clean the inside of your carbs.

[buffalo]

Almost any engine built since the early '70's has hard enough valve seats that lead is not needed. The seats used in Jap aluminum heads have always been plenty hard enough. They probably list leaded gas since it was cheaper and easier to get in the early 80's.

[scalded dog]

I have been riding with the Southern Cruisers for a few years now, everyone always buys the premium, Amoco when possible. I just wonder if this will cause any problems over the long run. Thanks 'Dog

[Dragonrider]

Premium will not cause any problems, but unless your bike is "pinging" on the lower grades you are just wasting money.

Even in the intense Texas summer, I have not needed the premium.

I have occasionally run it, as when fueling with my buddy James we just pull up side-by-side at the pump and both use the same hose. The guy closest to the pump pays, and selects the grade.

James occasionally runs premium.

I have noted that my milage goes DOWN when running the premium...it was by about 15% on Well Oiled Machine, and it is about 10% on The Dragon

YMMV