As part of my daily commute, I need to go up this steep hill (Claremont Ave in Berkeley, CA). The steepness is about a constant 25-30% grade. I'm traveling about 35 mph at 3000 RPM in 4th. I think I've heard some pinging. And when does pinging become knocking? I'm using 91 Octane from this generic gas station. Could that be it? Should I be using like 3rd gear, maybe even 2nd?

Thanks for your help. My Fellow stook owners are really great (oops what's that brown stuff on my nose?).


Cheers,
Speedster Red/Black '00
Spoon X-brace, Neuspeed upper strut brace

 

Speedster, Pinging is knocking, use 3rd gear & less gas.

 

I'd switch to 92 octane from a reputable station. You'd be amazed at the difference different fuel brands can make.

 

Hi Speedster,

I think you are actually supposed to use premium 93 Pump Octane gas!!

What you are describing sounds like Low Speed Knock and the best remedy is in fact shifting back so you get higher rpm. This should eliminate the pinging.

 

Problem solved......up your octane and down your gear!

 

Sometimes 92 is the highest you can get depending on your altitude.

 

Isn't 92 generally the highest you can get in the Bay Area? I never found higher than 92 while I was living there.

 

I know that street. That's a pretty steep hill. What are you doing in 4th? I would be in 3rd or 2nd.

 

I guess I've been in the wrong gear. By not putting much load of trying to accelerate hard, it was adequate to be in 4th gear doing a lazy 3000-3300 RPM. I will try 3rd gear today, and look at changing gas stations as well.

Cheers,
Speedster

 

Don't you guys have Sunoco 94 octane available? I live in NJ and that's what I always use.