Lude Generation

I wanna get a replacement knock sensor. My car's engine is pinking / knocking, only when under moderate to heavy load at low revs, but only when cold, so isn't a major problem. Once up to temperature, it's fine. As part of generous TLC package I've given my Prelude this year, I've replaced the following:

• Spark plugs (twice),
  Fuel filter,
  O2 sensor,
  Distributor cap & rotor.

I've also:

• Cleaned out EGR valve & EGR ports,
  Cleaned out intake with carb cleaner,
  Checked & adjusted valve clearances,
  Changed engine oil & filter.

It's still pinking but I didn't expect most of the above tasks to sort it anyway. I know that adjusting the ignition timing might help as it might be too advanced. However, I'm not sure if mine can be adjusted (http://www.ludegeneration.co.uk/honda-p ... t8875.html), but I'll be checking next week. Anyway, for good measure, I wanna replace the knock sensor as maybe mine is a little deaf after 13.5 years.

Has anyone here got any experience or knowledge of non genuine Honda knock sensors? Any problems? I've only had a quick look and seen a couple of companies called Power Pro and HQRP make them.

You sure it's knock you're hearing? The ECU runs very rich during warmup. It's far more likely to knock when hot. Do your plugs show and signs of knock or overheating?

Yeah, pretty sure it's knock. The old plugs looked fine. And as far as I know, the engine hasn't got any issues with overheating. I should add that my car runs on a strict diet of Shell V-Power, so fuel quality isn't the problem here.

CARRisma wrote:I should add that my car runs on a strict diet of Shell V-Power

With that fuel, unless your ignition timing is advanced to the absolute max, it's very unlikely you're getting knock.

@Ammo??

Check the ignition timing first, you'll know if you can change the timing by looking at the distributor. If it has elongated bolt holes you can is my understanding. Look at the fourth gen manual for ignition timing and you'll see what I mean.

When you changed the plugs what did you change them to etc? Just wondering if you are using the wrong plug? Have you ran some cleaner through the fuel system like Wynns clean burn?

BMCC wrote:When you changed the plugs what did you change them to etc? Just wondering if you are using the wrong plug?

I've fitted the standard NGK Platinum spark plugs.

BMCC wrote:Have you ran some cleaner through the fuel system like Wynns clean burn?

Yeah, used Sea Foam in the fuel tank and through the throttle body.

I think all obdii (5ths) are not adjustable at the dist. Does it have 1 or 2 plugs on the dist? 1 means no...