I think my knock sensor may be retarding timing because it feels like it is and when i unplugged the sensor i didnt notice a change in performance. I also had been getting knock until i retarded the timing... my car is all messed up please help..


88 f bird w/ 150 swap


Should i just toss a carb on there??

 

If the knock sensor detects knocking, the ecm will retard the timing. So if you think the engine is knocking and it feels like the ignition timing is being retarded, I'd say you knock sensor is working. Disconnecting the knock sensor will simply prevent the ecm from getting a signal from the sensor and therefore not retard the timing.

If your ecm is has stored a Code 43, you may have a knock sensor or knock sensor wiring problem. Keep in mind that diconnecting the knock sensor may cause this code to be stored.

There is a procedure for troubleshooting a Code 43 and testing the knock sensor in a book I purchased based on a recommedation from this web site. The name of the book is: How to tune & modify Chevrolet Fuel Injection by Ben Watson. (isbn 076030422x). Check out pgs 50-51, 96-97, 132-133, & 138.

Per the procedure w/ the ignition off you should get an AC signal using a digital voltmeter on pin E of the ESC module (signal from Knock sensor) when tapping the block w/ a 4 oz hammer.