76 Merc 188 fuel question.

[Boomyal]

By 1976 US automobiles were being manufactured with hardened valve seats. This, of course, was necessary to withstand lead free gasoline. While sweating in the back of my Beachcraft today, finally getting around to pulling the risor studs, my eyes fell upon a sticker on the valve cover that said "use leaded regular".

Does this mean the '76 188 (302) cylinder heads do not have hardened valve seats? If so, should I run a lead substitute or just run it till it needs a valve job.

 

[Bondo]

Re: 76 Merc 188 fuel question.

or just run it till it needs a valve job.

I'd say the Odds are Slim to None,.......
That You'll Ever rack up enough Hours on that old warhorse,...
To cause the Valve Seats to Fail,.... Just because of the Gas you're dumping into it...........

 

[ziggy]

Re: 76 Merc 188 fuel question.

Quote:
or just run it till it needs a valve job.
I'd say the Odds are Slim to None,.......
That You'll Ever rack up enough Hours on that old warhorse,...

from what i read, i think bondo is most correct.......that said. i still use a lead additive......probably wastein my bread, but i figure i need to give my ol engine the best chance of lasting, dought it helps.....but it did want lead when it was designed.........lead substitute is the best that i can offer her now.....

 

[JasonB]

Re: 76 Merc 188 fuel question.

When I had my '76 888 heads redone a couple years ago, the machinist told me mine were ok for regular unleaded. Can't swear that the heads were original though.

 

[Tail_Gunner]

Re: 76 Merc 188 fuel question.

I'd say the Odds are Slim to None,.......
That You'll Ever rack up enough Hours on that old warhorse,...
To cause the Valve Seats to Fail,.... Just because of the Gas you're dumping into it...........

Ummm you meant warehouse did you not...........

Yes By she's not set up for unleaded, no big deal though ill let you pull up close to the Wellcraft and you can drift with me........