Ive read so much about boosting engines and researching what optimal setups should be like thanks to this board, but this time Im on the fence. With my current setup I have an ATK Vortec 350 with 9.6:1 compression ratio, recommended 93 octane. If I ran a single turbo(or twin) with 5 pounds of boost, would 93 octane be enough, or even possible? I know 9.6 isnt optimal (what Id do to have 8.5:1 right now) but is it possible to have a reliable setup running 5 psi through a blow-thru style carburetor? Or am I just asking for trouble? If anyone knows what the limit is on 93 octane please chime in, I have no idea what 5psi would do to my compression ratio. Thanks & Happy New Year everyone!

 

I'm running 10 psi non intercooled on my 87 tpi 5.7 with 9.3:1 compression and 93 octane. I've hit 12 psi (unplanned!). My timing at 9+ psi is only around 12-14 degrees. If I try to get more agressive on timing I get detonation. As long as you run a good ignition system with boost reference (like an MSD 6BTM) and keep your timing conservative, there is no reason you couldn't get away with 8-10 psi with your setup.

 

Thanks so much for the speedy response. Ive actually read/seen your threads about your setup and admire the setup you got (keeping the a/c!) I just wish I read what your engines specs were so I didnt have to start a new thread. However now Im confident to move forward with getting my hands on a turbo and a new carb so I can get this thing ready for the spring/summer. I guess the main thing to get under control is my timing to keep things from blowing up haha. Thanks again.