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| Flair Birds [1964-1966] You have a Fourth Generation Bird or just have some questions about them? Then this forum is for you, check it out. |
This is a discussion on Lead Substitues ? within the Flair Birds [1964-1966] forums, part of the Thunderbird Model Years category; Hi, I'm now the proud owner of a '65 Thunderbird with the original 390 engine which was rebuilt at some ...
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10-09-2000, 11:12 PM
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Lead Substitues ?
Hi,
I'm now the proud owner of a '65 Thunderbird with the original 390 engine which was rebuilt at some time, but I'm not sure what parts went into it. Anyway, should I be using a lead substitute and if so, any recommendations on what's best? Any suggestions are appreciated 
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01-15-2001, 11:11 PM
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I have rebuilt my '66 390 and struggled with the same issue. I tried the lead substitute from the auto parts stores and they didn't seem to do anything. I just put the highest octane unleaded I can find. Even on hot days in the summer, the engine will "ping" under a load. Im told the only way to truly solve the problam is to install hardened valves that will stand the unleaded gas.
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01-28-2001, 03:22 PM
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Lead in gasoline was used a cheap method to achieve high octane, which allowed the engines to be tuned fo more advanced timing which generally translated inot faster performance, better gas mileage, and smoother running.
With the lead having been removed some of the highest octane gas is only 92 or 93 compared to the 99 which these cars initially were designed to run on. The down side to all the leaded gas was that it contributed greatly to an internally dirty engine. The benefits of using today's cleaner gasolines far outweigh any disadvantage from not having lead in the gas. I wouldn't spend any more money on lead substitutes, and try retarding the timing very slightly to see if that eliminates the pinging--that would be the logical method for addressing low octane fuels. ------------------ Mark Kesner 64-66 Model Manager, VTCI
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Mark Kesner 64-66 Model Manager, VTCI
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11-07-2001, 09:55 AM
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Mark is right on the money. I forget what year lead was added to gas but prior to that ALL gas was lead free. I've read in restoration books that lead substitutes are a waste of money, especially if the car is used for only short jaunts. If I were to take my car on a cross country adventure, I would use it. There's a reason mfgrs are putting hardened valves and seats in engines today...
If your engine was rebuilt after the mid 80's, it probably has hardened valves and seats in it.
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11-07-2001, 11:36 AM
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just to add to this - I don't think an occaisional can of lead additive should be a problem - the lead is a good engine lubricant - to be on the safe side.
pj
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Crazy about them bullet birds - don't know why - just love em - a rollin piece of art work is what they are.
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11-07-2001, 04:55 PM
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Yes, all the above info is good. I have 100,000 on my 66 with a 390 engine and it is doing just fine on unleaded gas. On a long trip I do add some Marvel Mystery oil for overhead lubrication.
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Joe DV
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11-13-2001, 11:59 PM
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John, it sounds like we are are the same track. I just bought a 65 with a rebuilt engine, too. I'm just now beginning to map out a strategy for restoration of sorts over this winter. I'm starting with the ignition system and working my way from front to back, but who knows what I'll find when I get into it. As time goes on I'm sure I'll have plenty of questions.
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