Hey guys! Alright my problem is this. I drive about 200 miles a weekend and
each way, if I push the car even semi-hard.. it starts pinging, then the
check engine light comes on. After this, the engine seems to be much much
less responsive, and I lose power and acceleration. I understand that the
check engine light comes on because of code 43- Electronic spark control
problem.

I took the car in to Econolube, and they diagnosed for 2 days, couldn't
figure it out. The knock sensor is fine...

Get this! If I drive with my foot covering the entire gas pedal... I can
drive harder without it pinging? What could be causing this weird problem?
And how can I fix it. Normally I drive with my foot on the tip of the gas
pedal, as it's uncomfortable the other way. ANY advice would be appreciated

Thanks,
Dan



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Daniel Galley
'88 IROC

 

Retard the timing a few degree's. The most noticeable ping usually happens with a light load. So the part throttle ping is nothing strange. The cause might be carbon build up in the combustion chamber, or just incorrect timing or a number of other problems. Retarding the timing will usually help. Crappy fuel, or too low of octane can cause the ping.

this is bad on the engine and creates alot of heat.

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82 camaro--original steering wheel, brake/gas pedals, seats--everything else modified
82camaro

[This message has been edited by 82camaro (edited March 14, 2001).]

 

DT,

Welcome aboard!

The detonation you are hearing can be caused by several items, including the ESC and the items that 82camaro described. Your car should be able to operate on 89 octane fuel at stock timing settings. If you are using a lower grade fuel, you are increasing your chances for detonation.

Presumably, the detonation (knock) sensor is functioning, and the timing is set correctly. You should verify that the EGR system is operating correctly, since it will help keep the combustion chambers cooler and reduce the tendency to detonate. You should also make sure the fuel filter is clean, since a lean mixture can cause detonation. Make sure the cooling system is at peak efficiency, and that the spark plugs are of the correct heat range. Hot electrodes can cause preignition and knocking as well.

You should also verify the correct TPS setting to insure a correct fuel mixture, and test the output of the oxygen sensor. If several of these devices are on the edge of acceptable operatiing parameters, the engine could be running very lean (and hot), causing the detonation.

I'm baffled as to why your foot position on the pedal would change this condition at all - the throttle is cable connected to the pedal and can therefore get no twist or bind from how the linkage is actuated.

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Later,
Vader
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"I'm'a do Things My Way - It's My way or the Highway."
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