Topic: Fuel Treatment recommendation for '78 CB550?

[ScarThumbs]

I just picked my bike up from my trusted mechanic, where I had my valves and timing adjusted, and he suggested I use Lucas Upper Cylinder Lubricant Fuel Conditioner, saying it'll help the cylinders, and if I use it in my car I'll notice better mileage.

Anyone ever hear of this or use it?  He doesn't sell it himself, so he isn't in it for the money unless it screws the engine up, as he'll be fixing it then.

Thanks.

[mcpuffett]

hi, over here in the uk i use an octane boost or lead replacement additive ,made by castrol seems ok is supposed to give you a boost of lead when using unleaded fuel     mick.

[Kamerer]

I haven't heard of that, but the only addititve that I've found get rave reviews from multiple folks for our type bikes is Seafoam.  Funny name but seems to work exceedingly well at clearing carbs and intake deposits.  Just google "Seafoam" and you can find their site, easy to locate at auto shops in North America.  I learned about it on the Cb900/Cb1000 board at yahoo - get's rave reviews.

Bryan
Seattle

[dusterdude]

yea,any lucas product is good #$%*

[TwoTired]

hi, over here in the uk i use an octane boost or lead replacement additive ,made by castrol seems ok is supposed to give you a boost of lead when using unleaded fuel     mick.

Lead/is was an anti-knock additive usefull for higher compression engines, above 10.5 to 1.  It also lubricated the cast iron valve seats in auto engines reducing wear.

The stock CB550 has steel inserts for valve seats, and the CR is only 9:1. So, it doesn't need the lead and it doesn't need an octane boost over regular gasoline.
The boosters won't hurt the engine, per se.  But, the additive can increase cylinder deposits, and whatever is unburned just adds to air polution.

FYI
Cheers,

[eldar]

You can find seafoam at most hardware and auto stores. I have used it for years and it cleans great and engines run very well. 1 can will treat about 3 tanks or so. It costs about $5.

[CB750R]

I was told by lucas directly that their oil additive is fine for use on bikes with wet clutches ina 10% concentration, just an FYI. I know a lot of guys swear by the stuff for thier older engines, and considering the air cooled lump we all own, a little more protection to thermal breakdown sounds good to me!! As per Gas, I only fill up where there is a dedicated premium hose, otherwise your paying for several liters of more than likely mid or lowgrade, that is already in the pump, and hose assembly before the high test gets to your tank.  No biggy in a 70 liter tank but in a typical 15liter fill, thats prolly 20% of something other than high grade your getting!!

G

[Bob Wessner]

and considering the air cooled lump we all own

I'm hurt     

[CB750R]

and considering the air cooled lump we all own

I'm hurt

sorry just a little bitter over in my corner...

[eldar]

Well in the US, with these old bikes there is no point in anything above 87 octane. It does not burn fully sometimes and can increase deposits in the engine. You could probably do 89 with no trouble. But seafoam is good stuff and worth every penny.