Gas

You may at times need to run a lower grade to clean things up.  I know sounds wierd, but supreme is the only thing you should run.  The MINI needs 91 octane or better.

Personally, I use Chevron Supreme where possible.  I used Safeway Supreme for a while, and my MCS really does run better with the Chevron gas.

Good info on Gas here: http://www.toptiergas.com/

I use premium: Shell, Chevron, Texaco.  Union 76 is also on the list of Top Tier Providers.

Edited by CINIMIN - October/18/07 at 4:32am

Interesting what was said about Arco gas.  My dad looooooong ago (probably in the 70's) always told me to stay away from Arco.  Guess they haven't improved much. :)

Pigwidgin wrote: I just thought of something -- where does Costco get their gas from?  Anyone know? Kathy

Not sure but it does not burn clean.  If you use it, run your finger inside your tail pipe and see all the crap that blows out.  Run your tank clean and then fill up with Chevron Supreme, clean the inside of your tail pipes and then after a tank or two, check the tail pipe again.  I am sure you will see a notable difference. 

Also you will see your miles per gallon increase with Chevron vs. Costco, I know I ran Costco for a while and then did some checking and moved to Chevron, sure makes a difference.  Engine runs cleaner, better gas milage and smoother acceleration.

My two cents.....

While watching the speed channel today they review Fitch Fuel Catalysts.  I found it very interesting and am considering add this to my Jeep to check it out.  I have check a few vehicles and find they are all using the same number F3624. A bit pricey at $177.00 but has a 250,000 mile warranty. 

Here is some info from Fitch. 

Q. What are the benefits to be gained from the use of the Catalyst?

Improve fuel economy Improve horespower and torque Reduce emissions Less carbon deposits in engine Saves money Permanently stabilizes fuel Extend engine life Less engine and fuel system maintenance Allows the use of a lower octane fuel w/o sacrificing performance

Seems on the up-and-up on first blush, BUT NO MENTION OF MINIs!!!

I responded for assistance with my MINI, but asked that they also investigate offerings for all first and second generation engine offerings.  I'll keep you posted.

There FAQ page has an answer to that.  The boggest thing that I have not been able to find is any negatives to this..  I read the tests on the Fitch site and I am sure that a search off those would have turned something up but again found nothing. 

I'll ask the gasoline buyers at work where Costco gets its gas. I buy Costco premium as often as I can, because I get 3% back on all gas purchases, and...well, it helps my stock and 401k! I've heard our gas is just as good as Shell, Chevron, etc. but I will find out, as I want to know myself.

Just got off the phone w/ Levine Automotive who called to confirm my order for the Fitch Fuel Catalyst (generic in-line model).  Had a nice chat about them updating the Fitch selection guide to include MINIs, along with hoses, fittings, etc. specific to our application so as not to void our warranty - which would happen if we spliced into the fuel supply hose.  When they confirm that we do have a quick-connect coupling at the fuel rail (which shows in the Bentley manual, but I haven't yet seen personally), we should be good to go shortly.  It was nice of them to call about having to delay my shipment for a week or so.

From the same website the authors comments on ECU upgrades;

John,

Costco, like all other retail suppliers of gas, all get their gas from the same fill stations/terminals. The only things that make it "Shell" or "Costco" or "Chevron" gas are A) the additive blends and B) the markup.

Costco uses "loss-leaders" as in products that are offered slightly higher, at, or below cost to get you in the door and buy other things in large quantities. Gas is an example - they don't profit *as much* from gas sales like neighboring gas stations do, they profit from you being a member and getting your groceries from them...

I just found out today that Costco gas stations change the filters at the pumps more frequently than the comptetion. Interesting...I may have to get a gas can and sample it, to compare to others.

One word MARKETING.
I think it can be discussed until were blue in the face but in the end I think it comes down to personal choice how every you decide to make that decision.

Let me put it this way we make French Fries where I work. They all come from the same potato(kind of its more complicated then that) but some may like McD's,Burger King or even Red Robin. They are all the same potato but each customer asks for something to be added or taken away from that potato to get what they want. Oil refining is not a whole lot different from what I say when I was in So Cal.

I like Chevron for my Mini, not that it is better or worse that is just what I like for it and the Mini likes Chevron and I am sure Chevron likes me. My other 2 vehicles one is a little picky the other one does not care.

John
 

'02 MC, 60,000 miles.  I usually use 87 octane and have had no problems with using it.  I only run premium when I have to do a mountain pass or something like that.  I often use the Gasco down the street but occasionally fill up at a Shell.

Val