system 4

Post by **tinker** » Sun Dec 12, 2004 2:20 pm

I've been happily running my minor on LRP for the last 5 years but as its gradually disappearing I've been considering getting my engine converted to unleaded. I've just been advised to have a 'system 4' put in rather than an unleaded head, but I can't seem to find any information about the system and whether there are any pros/cons (apart from the price) compared to an unleaded head.

Post by **aupickup** » Sun Dec 12, 2004 2:27 pm

use unleaded fuel and castrol valve master

Post by **rayofleamington** » Sun Dec 12, 2004 2:50 pm

use unleaded fuel and castrol valve master

it's probably the same price as LRP (cheaper if you buy direct from Castrol instead of getting it from Halfords) and unlike LRP, you know what you are getting and Castrol valvemaster actually works!!
Don't use the cheapo additive or one of those silly inline catalysts as neither will work.

If you're planning on doing over approx 40,000 miles with the unleaded head, then you will break even on the £££'s compared to using the Castrol additive. If you get rid of the car before you clock up serious miles then the unleaded head was a waste of money compared to usng an additive.

Post by **tinker** » Sun Dec 12, 2004 4:09 pm

I think, from what I understand, that the 'system 4' I was recommended is a catalyst sytem ... you say this won't work ?

In which case I think I'd be best off with the castrol valvemaster as my mileage is only 1000-2000 miles per year.

Thanks for your help !

Post by **Cam** » Sun Dec 12, 2004 11:35 pm

Using Castrol valvemaster and unleaded is better for the engine too as it will run cooler, have more power and be less prone to pinking.

Post by **Kevin** » Mon Dec 13, 2004 6:30 am

As the others have said use the valvemaster as I have not heard of anyone having problems with using it.

Post by **57traveller** » Tue Dec 14, 2004 3:36 pm

And if you don't mind spending a little more the Valvemaster Plus, which contains an octane booster, is excellent.

Post by **ColinP** » Wed Dec 15, 2004 8:46 am

I've been trying to locate any evidence for the tin amalgam systems working and the mechanism of their action. All I can find (online) are customer testamonials and references to "testing".

The fuel is affected by the tin - though no-one has explained the mechanism - with results dating back to 1922. Well, I suspect that petrol production, method, and quality are a bit different now, and there should be some improvement in the scientific methods to show how it works (research grant anyone?).

Colin

Post by **rayofleamington** » Wed Dec 15, 2004 9:03 am

there should be some improvement in the scientific methods to show how it works (research grant anyone?).

Car companies spend hundreds of millions trying to get their cars to be more efficient and produce less emissions. If some scrap tin or magnets in the fuel line made a worthwhile improvement, it would be fitted at the factory....

Post by **simmitc** » Wed Dec 15, 2004 1:11 pm

I seem to recall Practical Classics running a proper test of some similar "catalyst" type products a good few years ago. They ended up with a lot of valve seat recession. The manufacturer made a great fuss about not proper conditions, and wanting to examine the head; but I never heard any more. The test consisted of real driving. Conversely, Castrol Valvemaster is a fine product; never had any problems, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it.