Determine the required fuel octane for your engine based on compression ratio, timing, and other factors. Prevent detonation and optimize performance.
Octane rating measures a fuel's resistance to detonation (knocking). Higher octane fuels can withstand higher compression and advanced timing without detonating.
Detonation occurs when fuel ignites spontaneously due to high pressure/temperature. Pre-ignition happens when fuel ignites before the spark plug fires.
Higher altitude, temperature, and humidity can affect octane requirements. Hot, dry conditions at high altitude may require higher octane fuel.
Forced induction, advanced timing, and high compression all increase octane requirements. Always use the highest octane fuel your engine needs.
Listen for pinging or knocking sounds under load. This indicates detonation and means you need higher octane fuel.
High engine temperatures can cause detonation. Ensure proper cooling and consider higher octane in hot conditions.
Higher octane fuel doesn't necessarily mean more power. Use the minimum octane your engine requires for best economy.
After engine modifications, always verify fuel requirements. Increased compression or boost pressure requires higher octane.