I recently read a post regarding the effects of octane boosters and listed the proper mix of Toluene to 91 Octane gas to achieve higher octane levels.

https://www.6speedonline.com/forums/...hlight=toluene

So...after doing some extensive search and reading on the subject I decided to proceed.

I went to the paint store and bought 4 gallons of Toluene. I added 1 1/2 gallons to a full tank of 92 octane Chevron.

WOW! This is what the car is supposed to feel like. It has a lot more throttle response and feels much faster. Obviously this is not scientific (no dyno charts) just seat of the pants feeling. The factory specifies 93 octane so I guess I am experiencing what the factory considers stock performance. WOW!

I am sure there are those of you who may discredit my findings. That's ok. I know what I felt and heard. I will be adding a gallon of Toluene to every tankful from here on out.

WARNING: While I am comfortable that adding 1 gallon of Toluene to each tank will not harm my engine, I recommend each of you do your own research and determine for yourself the costs/benefits.

PS - I had to sign a form at the paint store and show my DL so the Sheriff could follow up to determine if I was running a meth lab.

Use a long funnel and pour slowly! This stuff looks like it could be a nuclear meltdown on paint.

 

I forgot to add this link to a web site with a pretty good overview.

http://www.elektro.com/~audi/audi/toluene.html

 

i think im oging to give it a try

 

Don't want to scare anyone, but check out the MSDS on Toluene...

Some items of interest are:

Toluene can be absorbed through the skin and by inhalation.
Can cause reproductive harm and brain damage - probably if ingested in large amounts or over a long period.
Flash point is only 4 degrees centigrade
It is also very hygroscopic - keep the lid on!

I'm fairly certain that Toluene is utilised in household paint strippers/thinners and the like, so you would be wise to steer clear of getting any on your car's paintwork.

I'm not sure if a 996's fuel tank has any protective coating on the internals, but Toluene would probably not do the coating any good. I know that some of my friends who have used fuel additives in the past on bikes have had problems with these protective anti-corrosive coatings being eaten away and blocking fuel injectors.

 

I wonder like some of my race cars that use race fuel if the toulene would slowly deteriorate the soft fuel lines in our cars., making it neccessary to change to hard lines that have no effect on the corrosive effects of fuel.. Just a thought that popped up ... Great finding tho...

 

This has been around for several years now in the turbo community. Guys with software programs tuned for 104 octane could use it mixed with 91 or 93 or 95 and get to 104 or better for a lot less than actually buying 104.

 

I used to use it, but quit along time ago because it is so toxic.

 

My uncle Murphy says that I eventually will get it on the paint. And since it's a primary ingredient of furniture refinisher, once it's on the paint it's too late.

I'm going to avoid the inevitable and stay away from it......

 

Good points on the safety and paint.

I am not too concerned with my personal health regarding Toluene. Painters have been using this stuff for years and years with no challenges. I am just very careful and wash my hands thoroughly. One might want to consider using gloves and glasses if you are really concerned.

As for paint. I am VERY careful. I pour from the stock container in to a more manageable sized container then I used a long funnel. I also drape a towel around the top of the hoood surrounding the gas cap and pour very slowly. I think as long as I am careful and pay attention I will be fine.

The performance increase is fantastic and I am now spoiled.