Optimax for my 8V?

[Pimpster]

I've just moved near to a Shell garage and am thinking seriously of using Shell Optimax.

I've been told there is a knock sensor that automatically calibrates the engine to be able to use 98 RON but:

1. Is it ok to do?

2. Has anyone used it on an 8V and has it made any difference?

3. Is it worth it?

[Overseer]

1. it should be ok,

2. i tried it in my old 8v polo.. it was definitely a bit more nippy

3. its best to try for yourself. put some in when you're as empty as poss.. i hear its good to run a few loads through to ensure you're fully maxed up.. not sure how true that is.

[golfvr6]

Optimax will be fine, the engine should run a bit better. The knock sensor is on the engine so you can use normal unleaded without pinking under load.

[Pimpster]

Cheers Overseer and VR6 - i'll give it a go and post an update. Gimme anohter 100 miles and the present tank should be empty...

[golfvr6]

VW state in the owners manual that using 98RON gives me more torque on my vr6, don't know if it will do anything for the 8v. I doubt it  

[Pimpster]

I didnt see anything, but the big 95 RON ONLY sticker on the fuel cap made me think...

[golfvr6]

Probably means don't use less than 95RON.

[Pimpster]

I would have agreed, but the ONLY part of 95 RON Only got me a bit perplexed.

I'll give it a go. If its doesnt do anything for mine i'll go back to 95.

What do you run yours on VR6?

[golfvr6]

I normally just put unleaded in, but if i'm in a garage that does optimax, i will use that. High octane fuel won't damage the engine, only fuel which doesn't have a high enough octane rating.

[Glen]

Optimax is ok in the 8 valve, as you stated the sticker only means the minimum of 95ron to be used.
Optimax definately works in an 8 valve, works in mine, it does exactly what it says in the ads, makes your engine more responsive, gives it more ooomph!