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On your '86 Posted by Ari [Email]  (#2847) [Profile/Gallery]
(more from Ari) on Mon, 23 Jul 2001 12:16:07
In Reply to: Octane boosters: are they safe? Do they help?, JimW, Sat, 21 Jul 2001 14:32:08 Members do not see ads below this line. - Help Keep This Site Online - Signup |
Yes, your '86T does have a knock sensor, and it's used to limit boost via the APC. It Does Not affect timing in any way - in most of the '80's cars, timing is set by the distributor and that's the way it is.
It sounds like your car is stuck in base boost. Now, that could be because your engine needs higher octane, or it could be a different problem in the engine. No doubt, engines are more prone to knock in warm weather.
Try and track down some higher octane fuel. Sunoco used to sell 93/94. Call around - it'll be better than a can of octane booster, because you can really never be sure if you're getting and octane boost or not. Whatever you do, avoid any booster that contains lead - it will kill your catalytic converter. I don't know that any boosters do, but read the label.
If higher octane fuel gives you more boost, then you're on to something. At least you know the problem isn't a faulty APC system. But try other things - make sure your timing is spot on. Replace the spark plugs if they're old, and make sure they're gapped properly. Did the old plugs look whitish, indicating a lean mixture? Vacuum leaks and/or a tired fuel pressure regulator can cause lean running, which makes the engine more prone to knock.
Just for fun, try wiring 12 volts directly to the APC solenoid. If you get full boost, then you know the APC system is cutting you back. If you don't then suspect the APC solenoid.
If nothing else, make sure the APC solenoid is connected. Unplug it with the engine on at idle - you should hear a click as you plug it in and out. No click? Check the solenoid and the wires. Maybe you disloged something (wire, vacuum lines) while replacing hoses.
Every engine is different. I can get full boost running 87 octane in my '88 9000T. But if your engine is tigher, or maybe has some carbon buildup that increases compression, it may need higher octane fuel to run full boost. But troubleshoot the problem before you spend $$ for a can of goop that may or may not help.
Good luck!
, Mon, 23 Jul 2001 12:16:07 <-- Viewing This Message
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