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Unleaded gas in a panhead?

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Old 03-25-2008, 07:51 PM
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Default Unleaded gas in a panhead?
I just bought a '50 pan and it just occurred to me that gas was leaded in those days. How do these motors run on the present day unleaded gas? Any problems?
 
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Old 03-25-2008, 08:04 PM
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Default RE: Unleaded gas in a panhead?
ORIGINAL: doc308

I just bought a '50 pan and it just occurred to me that gas was leaded in those days. How do these motors run on the present day unleaded gas? Any problems?
Octain is more than enough but if I remember correctly they used bronze intake seats for the valves. Not sure how hard the exhaust seats are but I would think you would get a lot of wear in the bronze seats without lead. Marvel Mystery Oil mixed in the gas might do the trick in this department, but some research is needed to be sure. This product really does work well with many problems.
Ron
 
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Old 03-26-2008, 08:03 PM
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Default RE: Unleaded gas in a panhead?
Thanks, Ron.
 
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Old 03-26-2008, 08:18 PM
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Default RE: Unleaded gas in a panhead?
Had that issue a few years back, found an additive that added the led to the gas. May want to check your local auto parts stores.
 
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Old 04-07-2008, 04:09 PM
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Default RE: Unleaded gas in a panhead?
I ran straight 87 octaine gas in mine, ran perfect. They didn't have 87 octaine back then anyway (1948)
 
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Old 03-09-2013, 02:39 AM
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I know this is an old thread but I use 4 ounces of Marvels Mystery oil along with 4 ounces of Gunk brand Lead Substitute in each tank of Shell Super 93 octane gasoline.
 
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Old 03-09-2013, 08:48 PM
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i have a 48 Indian Chief and i also use Marvil oil 3 OZ to a tank full with high test fuel No smoke and it likes it -- jz
 
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