I am getting a light spark knock on acceleration from a stop and on grades most of the time. I have the 4.6L and use 87 octane gas. I think I may have read in the manual that a little spark knock was ok but I don't care for it.

Has anyone else noticed this? What do you think the dealer could do if I complained?

------------------
2001 Supercrew, 4x2 XLT
4.6, Arizona Beige with Deep Wedgewood Blue Accent
Options: CD Changer, LS Diff, Towing Package, 2 tone paint, 47F appearance package, 5 spoke cast wheels
New seats with front and rear adj. head rests
Built ~11/04/2000
Mods: Line-X, Advance Cover

[This message has been edited by arbee (edited 04-30-2001).]

 

I wouldn't worry about it. You're running reformulated gas which is just slightly better than water. I live in the triad and have the same problem with both of my trucks.

R

 

back to the top.

I was curious if any of you guys who tow are getting any spark knocking. I have the 4.6l, 2wd. I recently took the truck into due to spark knocking on acceleration in general and while towing. They said they updated the code in the computer (my build date is 11/2000) and the day to day driving has improved. Occasionally I still hear it but it is better. This past weekend I towed my travel trailer and the spark knocking is still there towing. It is a light spark knock but it can be heard and worries me that I am shortening the life of my engine. I for one don't think that it should ever spark knock and that something must be wrong but I feel like they are going to be unable to help me. I only use 87 octane and they did ask me about that when I took it in.

So, spark knocking anyone??

 

Light---very light pinging is normal for these engines...how ever when anything changes then it can lead to more pronounced pinging...

It can be corrected several ways...change gas stations and /or brands, clean the mass flow sensor wire(be cafeful), a reflash of the PCM, Retard the base timing...

Start with the basic checks, and then depending on mileage of truck maybe a tune up...

It sounds like Ford tried to reflash and it helped but didn't eliminate, therefore it sounds like you need to check the basics...

Air cleaner, mass flow cleanliness, fuel type, filter, good tune-up, injector clean, and dont forget the power down and relearn of the PCM...

 

I have a 1984 F150 5.0 V-8 which experienced this problem on the very first day. Under load the light pinging would occur, mostly summer heat & AC on. The truck has 150 k miles on it now and still runs great. I have tried various gasoline brands and it did made a difference. Odd how they all state the same octane rating. It would occur at very light throttle conditions and I learned to put my foot into a little bit more when needed.