Re: IML: Should I Add Lead Substitute?
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Re: IML: Should I Add Lead Substitute?



The 1958 Imperial engine requires high octane leaded gas. If you can't get it, and this substitute is legitimate, than I recommend that you do what the previous owner suggested. 1955 was the last Imperial that can run on unleaded gas without adversely effecting the engine, primarily the valves. Your engine can be rebuilt to run on today's fuel by having the cylinder heads reconditioned using hardened valves and valve seats.

The damage that will occur from using unleaded gas is generally gradual, and wears the valves and valve seats. If the engine is spark knocking or "pinging" from too low of octane, then it should be de-tuned to run silently. If not, bearing damage and possibly piston damage will result. Most of this can be alleviated by refraining from high speed driving, but not entirely.

Regardless, of the above, lack of use will also ruin the car. It needs to be driven. If the lead substitute you describe prevents damage, use it. If not, drive it anyway, and when the time comes for engine work, it can be done to allow enjoyment of your car under today's driving conditions.

Good luck and congratulations on buying the '58.

Paul W.


-----Original Message-----
From: HOFCAG@xxxxxxx
To: mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Sent: Sun, 16 Dec 2007 1:51 pm
Subject: IML: Should I Add Lead Substitute?



About six weeks ago I acquired a beautiful '58 Southampton 4dr.  27,000 original  miles and runs great.  No performance problems whatsoever and I hope to keep it that way.  The man I bought the car from has collected primarily 1950s American cars for many years and presently has over 20 in his collection.  All in excellent shape.  This guy knows plenty about cars and  he has strongly advised me to add "CD-2 Lead Substitute" at the rate of one oz. per 10 gallons of gasoline every second time I fill the tank with high test gas.  I've been doing that and everything seems fine.  A few days ago I met another man who also claims to know a lot about old cars and he said I should definitely NOT add lead substitute to the tank.  He claims that could harm the engine and told me to simply burn the highest octane unleaded premium gasoline I could find.  What do you guys advise?  Opinions?  I want to keep my old HEMI healthy & happy.

Keith - Durham, NC-58 Southampton




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