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Which gas brand to use?

joejccva

By joejccva
in Ask A GM Technician

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joejccva Enthusiast

joejccva

Posted
Posted

This question probably has been beat to death before, but I tried searching the forums and found no answers on this.

 

My question:

 

Which brand gas is probably some of the best to use? I have a 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD 4.8L and I used to just go to Sheetz, but I did some research and they are the absolute worst place to buy gas as far as quality.

 

I've heard that Chevron, Shell, Texaco, Phillips and 76 are the TOP RATED gasolines in the country as far as QUALITY. But is one better than the other?

 

What do you guys use and what do you recommend? I was kinda surprised that I didn't find Exxon in any of the top rated gasoline sites.

 

 

Thanks in advance.

C & A s Dad Senior Enthusiast

C & A s Dad

Posted
Posted

You will find opinions on this all over the place. Some say that there is no difference in fuels while others feel the top brands are better. I fall into the 2nd category.

 

I use only Chevron in my peronal vehicles and try to in my work van as well but due to my travels, this is not alway possible. Chevron contains Techron which is absolutely the best (IMP) additive for keeping valves and combustion chambers clean. Of course Texaco and Chevron are one in the same company now.

 

From there, I have no problem buying Shell, BP/Amoco or Mobil/Exxon.

 

I just do not buy fuel from Wal Mart, Grocery Store chains, or no name Conv Stores.

 

Some claim they have been using Wal Mart gas for years with no problems while others will say they have had issues with it, myself included. I had one of the guys working for me that would burn the cheapest gas he could find in his co van. With only 50 or 60K on the clock it burned a valve. I was having it repaired and the shop owner called me to take a look at the valves and the comb chambers. They were a mess. The Tech said, "I will bet he is using cheap gas". He was right. Just one case but it was enough to convince me.

 

I also use 93 octane in my Yukon XL which some feel is waste of money. You can search this and read why myself and some others on this forum believe this provides some extra benefits in MPG and HP.

joejccva Enthusiast

joejccva

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Appreciate the info greatly.

 

See I live in southern virginia (Danville), and I don't even think they have a Chevron here.

 

I guess I'll look around and see and if not I'll go with Exxon or Shell.

 

Thanks. :D

Falconcbu2 Enthusiast

Falconcbu2

Posted
Posted

I use to work for a gas market survey company and from what i learned there are different mix of gas for you East coast people when winter comes around. So that your gas wont freeze on you or something...

 

They say they go through the same process of making the gas but companys do add there additives. Which is also another reason i guess there prices are higher. I buy a octane booster (lucas) if i buy low grade gas.. but there is a difference in gas.. :D

joejccva Enthusiast

joejccva

Posted
  • Author
Posted
I use to work for a gas market survey company and from what i learned there are different mix of gas for you East coast people when winter comes around. So that your gas wont freeze on you or something...

 

They say they go through the same process of making the gas but companys do add there additives. Which is also another reason i guess there prices are higher. I buy a octane booster (lucas) if i buy low grade gas..  but there is a difference in gas..  :D

 

 

 

 

 

Yea I think I'm going to start going to one of the Texaco stations which is on the way to and from work. They use that Techron additive from Chevron so that's good.

 

I can't believe I was dumb enough to use the 87 regular at Sheetz which is one of the HUGE food mart/gas stations that everyone goes to because it's the cheapest price in town.

 

I also went to Auto Zone and bought one of those Fuel Injector and Lubricator cleaners by Lucas Oil. Going to use a little of that as well.

GM-Tech Senior Enthusiast

GM-Tech

Posted
Posted

Subject: Info - TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline (Deposits, Fuel Economy, No Start, Power, Performance, Stall Concerns) - U.S. Only #04-06-04-047G - (11/28/2006)

 

 

 

Models: 2007 and Prior GM Passenger Cars and Trucks (including Saturn) (U.S. Only)

 

2003-2007 HUMMER H2 (U.S. Only)

 

2006-2007 HUMMER H3 (U.S. Only)

 

2005-2007 Saab 9-7X (U.S. Only)

 

 

 

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

This bulletin is being revised to add additional sources to the Top Tier Fuel Retailers list. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 04-06-04-047F (Section 06 - Engine/Propulsion System). In Canada, refer to Corporate Bulletin Number 05-06-04-022C

 

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

A new class of fuel called TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline is appearing at retail stations of some fuel marketers. This gasoline meets detergency standards developed by four automotive companies. All vehicles will benefit from using TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline over gasoline containing the "Lowest Additive Concentration" set by the EPA. Those vehicles that have experienced deposit related concerns may especially benefit from the use of TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline.

 

4ckatn9.gif

 

(1) Intake valve: 10,000 miles with TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline

(2) Intake valve: 10,000 miles with Legal Minimum additive

 

Gasoline Brands That Currently Meet TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Standards

As of November 15, 2006, all grades of the following gasoline brands meet the TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Standards:

 

• Chevron

 

• QuikTrip

 

• Conoco

 

• Phillips 66

 

• 76

 

• Shell

 

• Entec Stations located in the greater Montgomery, Alabama area.

 

• MFA Oil Company located throughout Missouri.

 

• Kwik Trip, Inc. in Minnesota and Wisconsin andKwik Star convenience stores in Iowa.

 

• The Somerset Refinery, Inc. at Somerset Oil stations in Kentucky.

 

• Aloha Petroleum

 

• Tri-Par Oil Company

 

• Texaco

 

What is TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline?

TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline is a new class of gasoline with enhanced detergency. It meets new, voluntary deposit control standards developed by four automotive companies that exceed the detergent requirements imposed by the EPA.

 

Where Can TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline Be Purchased?

The TOP TIER program began on May 3, 2004. Some fuel marketers have already joined and have introduced TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. This is a voluntary program and not all fuel marketers will offer this product. Once fuel marketers make public announcements, they will appear on a list of brands that meet the TOP TIER standards.

 

Where Can I find the Latest Information on TOP TIER Fuel and Retailers?

On the web, please visit www.toptiergas.com for additional information and updated retailer lists.

 

Who developed TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline standards?

TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline standards were developed by four automotive companies: BMW, General Motors, Honda and Toyota.

 

Why was TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline developed?

TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline was developed to increase the level of detergent additive in gasoline. The EPA requires that all gasoline sold in the U.S. contain a detergent additive. However, the requirement is minimal and in many cases, is not sufficient to keep engines clean. In order to meet TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline standards, a higher level of detergent is needed than what is required by the EPA. Also, TOP TIER was developed to give fuel marketers the opportunity to differentiate their product.

 

Why did the four automotive companies join together to develop TOP TIER?

All four corporations recognized the benefits to both the vehicle and the consumer. Also, joining together emphasized that low detergency is an issue of concern to several automotive companies.

 

What are the benefits of TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline?

TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline will help keep engines cleaner than gasoline containing the "Lowest Additive Concentration" set by the EPA. Clean engines help provide optimal fuel economy and performance and reduced emissions. Also, use of TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline will help reduce deposit related concerns.

 

 

 

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

 

 

© Copyright General Motors Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

joejccva Enthusiast

joejccva

Posted
  • Author
Posted

Wow..that's what an intake valve looks like using the cheap gas after only 10k miles?!?

 

That's enough to convince anyone to use the good stuff.

 

Thanks alot!

C & A s Dad Senior Enthusiast

C & A s Dad

Posted
Posted

Thanks a lot for the bulletin GM Tech.

 

 

Joe, I use Lucas Upper Cyl Lubricant (I think it says Fuel Inj Cleaner on the bottle also) with every tank. I use it at the rate of 3 oz per 10 gallons. I am convinced it is a great product and helps my MPG. I work in the Auto Parts Industry and am able to buy this product at cost. I am not sure it would be cost effective if you had to buy it at retail price. However, I will tell you it is much cheaper buying it by the gallon.

 

I do not belive in Oil Additives but I firmly belive in Lucas Fuel Additive and Techron from Chevron.

Falconcbu2 Enthusiast

Falconcbu2

Posted
Posted

I use Lucas upper cyl, additive too...

Oh.. my bad... I said in early post octane Booster..

I forgot Lucas does make a Octane booster but it is to much $...

i buy that 32 oz bottle of that cyl, additive...

Wow where do you get a gallon of that stuff... :D

gave20 Senior Enthusiast

gave20

Posted
Posted

I've always run Sheetz gas in my personal and work vehicles and never had a problem. If Toptier is supposed to be so much better than regular gas why doesn't every station carry it. There's 1 shell station in my town and I guarantee every GM, Honda and Toyota vehicle doesn't fill up there.

Falconcbu2 Enthusiast

Falconcbu2

Posted
Posted
I've always run Sheetz gas in my personal and work vehicles and never had a problem.  If Toptier is supposed to be so much better than regular gas why doesn't every station carry it.  There's 1 shell station in my town and I guarantee every GM, Honda and Toyota vehicle doesn't fill up there.

 

 

 

 

The price i guess?? Thats why...

 

In CA there are 2 stations that have customer appriciation on Tuesdays and Thursdays.. and its Chevron and 76 :D so i go there..

GM-Tech Senior Enthusiast

GM-Tech

Posted
Posted
If Toptier is supposed to be so much better than regular gas why doesn't every station carry it.

 

Probably because it's more expensive to produce?

 

There's 1 shell station in my town and I guarantee every GM, Honda and Toyota vehicle doesn't fill up there.

 

What's your point? Those auto manufacturers just got together with the fuel companies to produce a better quality fuel. No one is saying if you have a GM or whatever, you have to use it.

pm26 Senior Enthusiast

pm26

Posted
Posted

What about Mobil or BP fuels? I have had very good luck with both and my Mazda with 162k runs and idles like a new car.

joejccva Enthusiast

joejccva

Posted
  • Author
Posted
Thanks a lot for the bulletin GM Tech.

 

 

Joe, I use Lucas Upper Cyl Lubricant (I think it says Fuel Inj Cleaner on the bottle also) with every tank. I use it at the rate of 3 oz per 10 gallons. I am convinced it is a great product and helps my MPG. I work in the Auto Parts Industry and am able to buy this product at cost. I am not sure it would be cost effective if you had to buy it at retail price. However, I will tell you it is much cheaper buying it by the gallon.

 

I do not belive in Oil Additives but I firmly belive in Lucas Fuel Additive and Techron from Chevron.

 

 

 

 

 

So it's ok to use the Lucas Fuel Inj Cleaner on every fillup? I was told you only need to really use it every 3rd or 4th fillup or so. Just curious if it makes a difference.

 

Also I was under the impression that Texaco also has that Techron additive in their gasolines as well because Texaco and Chevron are as one in company. Am I accurate in this? If so then I would guess it's safe to assume that Chevron/Texaco is one of the highest in quality gas you can buy at 93 octane?

 

Again I appreciate all the info. :D

 

Thanks.

Joe

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