To Lead Or Not To Lead??

[Steve S.]

Well, since I got my 175 up and running I was wondering what everyone here thinks about running these old Bridgestones on unleaded gas.  Do you use a lead substitute or just run the unleaded?  What's the general consensus? 
Thanks, and I apoligise if this topic has already been covered.

[Sno Jet]

 I  don't think it would be necessary.  These are two strokes.

[BS Mechanic]

I think I've read that lead in gasoline increases the problem of spark plug fouling and misfiring.  Last thing needed on a 2 stroke with old style ignition!

[Bikenstein]

Back in the 70's we ran "white" Amoco gas (unleaded) in two strokes and did have less problems with plug fouling. We ran our bikes so hard though, I can't recall if anybody got 10 grand before a rebuild.

[Toystoretom]

Back in the day  .... the lead was used to lube the valves and valve seats, along with the plain big end bearings. Since 2 strokes have no valves and use roller bearings, I think we are pretty safe. I don't think it has any effect on the rotary valves. Just use a good 2 stroke oil.

I've torn down old V8 car engines and there was a light colored paste in the bottom of the oil pan (almost white colored). It turns out that this was lead residue, some really toxic stuff. I gave it to Ted Nugent...