Hello, I'm pretty new to this site. I've been looking around for a couple weeks but this is my first post. I just bought a 1986 Berlinetta 305 and it's pinging(or knocking?) a little bit (I think it's the timing?). But, as of yesterday, it started getting louder and louder. I am in Washington state and the weather did considerably drop over the last few days but I'm wondering if this is a major problem right now or is there something simple I can do to fix it for now? I put some octane booster and gas treatment in it the other day hoping it'd help with the pinging but it seems to get worse (mostly around low RPMs)

The car is running very rich (I can smell it) and it smells like the gas that was in it when I got it is bad/going bad. I haven't had a chance to check the timing but I'll be doing that as soon as I can. I have new plugs and wires for it and I'll be giving it an oil change also. The only thing is, I have to drive it about 3 miles to a shop I can work on it at since I live in an apartment. I'm just worried that the pinging/knocking will cause more problems if I try driving it. Does anyone have any info on pinging or knocking, what causes it, and how to correct it?

Thanks.

ZClark - '86 Camaro Berlinetta

EDIT:: FYI, this is not a rod knocking, it's either detonation or pre-ignition (not sure which??)

 

the pinging or knocking sounds like the damage is already done. sry bud. mayeb these other guys might feel it can be saved without a re-build but wheneever i heard the knocking word i always think shot and time for re-build. you cna fix the timing with a timing gun rigt at your apartment. i would pay the 50bucks for a tow truck to have the garage pick it up.


see what these other guys say or call the garage directly and get their thoughts.

goodluck

if anything try to save it because i think berlinettas are kool with the digitial interior. i dont see too many of those ever these days.

 

Ok, so I looked up detonation and preignition (thank god for wikipedia). I had a small pre-ignition problem in my 83 Buick Regal I used to have and fixed that by retarding the timing a little and running the mid grade fuel. I already put some octane booster in this though and it doesn't seem to be any better. Perhaps the temperature change has something to do with it?

I'm hoping not to have to rebuild it right away. I have a motorcycle to get me to work and back but in the ever-so-sunny state of Washington, that's probably not a good idea already being late November. I was just wondering if anyone can let me in on any tips or tricks that might help?

I could adjust my timing at the apartment, I just don't know anyone with a timing light and I'm afraid it's going to cost me an arm and a leg to go buy one.

Thanks for the input. I'd never really seen a Berlinetta before I got mine but I also love the digital interior. It's going to be a nightmare working out the minor electrical issues but It'll definitely be nice when it's done.