I wonder how FAR888 is getting out there in Africa. BTW FAR888, how's the 55 holding its own on regular "leaded" fuel? Please update us because we may all soon switch to regular gasoline given the current and projected fuel cost in the US.
Hey Darkmann, thanks for remembering me out here in the tropics! (LOL)
My ML55 has been using regular unleaded fuel (that's all that's available out here before some of you start berating me) for the past two months since I exported it from the US in September 2007. So far so good and no sign of any horrible 'check engine' light or noticeable drop in performance from when I drove it in the States with premium fuel.
However, my fuel mileage is currently, according to the trip computer, an eye-watering 11-12 miles per gallon in the city and 14-15 on the highway and I am not sure whether that is a result of the computer over-compensating for the low octane fuel (what you think 43sqd and other mechanical experts?)
However, even with the low octane fuel, I have enormous fun kicking dust into the windscreen of most cars trying to overtake me (my ML55 is the only one in my tiny West African State of 4 Million people) - Except this one guy with a Porsche Cayenne Turbo who I hate! (LOL)
Will keep you updated on how I get on over the next few months!
I am not sure whether that is a result of the computer over-compensating for the low octane fuel
Very likely. The computer would have retarded the timing significantly. So instead of the fuel burning throughout almost the entire downstroke providing power the whole time it is burning just through the later part of the stroke.
Others may have a better suggestion but I would run a bottle of Techron in a tank at least once a month to keep the deposits down.
Very likely. The computer would have retarded the timing significantly. So instead of the fuel burning throughout almost the entire downstroke providing power the whole time it is burning just through the later part of the stroke.
Thanks for that Gene - Its what I suspected too.
Let's see what others say.
ps. Not sure about octane-boosting products such as the one you suggest above - Isn't there a school of thought that they are actually bad for the engines?
I get on with my 1998 ML320, 135000+ miles 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. After every refill I always write down the amount paid, miles etc. in a spreadsheet file so I always keep track on the fuel consumption. I use only premium fuel. In Phoenix and Tempe the driving is quite easy though.
Not sure about octane-boosting products such as the one you suggest above - Isn't there a school of thought that they are actually bad for the engines?
Generic "octane boosters"? Probably. Techron? I've _never_ heard that before.
...After every refill I always write down the amount paid, miles etc. in a spreadsheet file so I always keep track on the fuel consumption. I use only premium fuel. ...
Funny, I do the same thing and tag them up in an Excel file. I also note the nature of the driving. It does help somewhat with tailoring my driving style to save on fuel!!!
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1989 300ZXT - mine
A pair of running shoes
A 18Hp lawn mower
2 Mountain Bikes
350Z - will be mine when @ 300+HP and 3-Car Garage
Techron helps keep the engine clean, so if you are running the low octane it may help keep your engine strong, although I think once a month may be a little much with it. It isn't an octane booster, so don't expect anything in that respect.
It does help somewhat with tailoring my driving style to save on fuel!!!
Absolutely, there is about a 4mpg difference (12-16) between harsher driving and light driving for me. And that says nothing for the money saved in brakes as well.
__________________ 2000 ML430
Chrome grille, tailgate latch, logo on rims, instrument cluster rings - K&N air filter - Ate brakes - projector style lights w/xenon bulbs - white LED lights on licence plate - handpainted pinstripe - designo Java Shift Surround - brushed aluminum roof rails
Hi, I have been getting about 12-16 MPG avg. on my 2000 ML320
I have noticed from friends and reading some post on here that most are getting alot better then that.
whats your MPG? also, if mine are unusually low, what could be the problem?
Linear Mode
