I own a 2002 Chevy Silvarado with a 4.3L engine with just over 58,000 miles. Recently I've been hearing a metalic ping when the engine idles. The check engine light has not come on, and the truck seems to be running fine. The mechanics all seem to think the noise is normal for this model, and reccomend I use high octane fuel. What do you think?
2006-12-20 16:52:14 · 10 answers · asked by Pastor of CoRCS 2 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
your '02 chevy is O.B.D.II, this means that it has the capability to compensate for engine knock, however, a knock ,or 'ping' at idle indicates a different type of problem. Could be a lifter(I would say most likely) maybe a problem with the knock sensor( not too likely). Best to have it checked by a qualified technician to avoid possible damage. Although not very likely, you might check the harmonic balancer, usually on O.B.D.II engines if this is bad it will take out the crankshaft position sensor, but it might be an issue. Hope this helps.
2006-12-21 15:56:42 · answer #1 · answered by Burts chevy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A fuel octane problem will not manifest at idle, only under load. Octane rating is actually resistance to combustion believe it or not. That was over simplified, but we'll keep it simple. You won't get more mileage or power from using higher octane gas.
Not to mention there are sensors that Listen for the noise frequency of pre-ignition (knock sensor) and retards the timing automatically because this is very hard on an engine
2006-12-21 02:46:04 · answer #2 · answered by Curious 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hate to say it but... if your mechanic suggested it then why didn't you try it? It will cost you a tank full of gas to get your answer. The other responders have said that your vehicle only needs 87 octane. My research on this matter has taught me that only vehicles capable of recognizing the difference between high octane gas can benefit from it. For example, if you have a bmw recommended to use 91 octane and you use 87, your car can adjust the timing to compensate for the lower octane (reduced performance of course). Cars that only need 87 are usually less sophisticated and will not compensate or benefit or know the difference between different octane, so try it and see if it helps or not.
2006-12-21 01:09:31 · answer #3 · answered by e e 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Higher octane fuel will be more resistant to pre-detonate under pressure. ONLY If your engine have enough compression to pre-ignite the fuel, high octane will prevent 'pinging under hard acceleration' and improve mileage. If you use the cheaper gas, your vehicle will adjust itself to it by advancing the timing.
Gas Octane have no relation to the "idle metalic pinging" or the check engine light.
The metalic pinging at idle can be related to the hidraulic lifters.
2006-12-21 01:05:09 · answer #4 · answered by Wrenchmeister 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i have the same truck. i had a metallic noise from the engine and it was a belt tension er making the noise. higher octane fuel will only help reduce the ping under load. engine ping or detonation should only be heard when you are into the gas or towing. and the owners manual states that if you tow you should use only premium fuel
2006-12-21 01:18:41 · answer #5 · answered by damaged110 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Read your owners manual I believe they recommend 87 octane on that model and not to use a higher octane
2006-12-21 00:57:51 · answer #6 · answered by Michael 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
if your ping is a light clicking sound might be worn lifter changing
oil with proper weight should reduce this i think it calls for 5w30 or 10w30.
your truck call for 87 octane gas.
2006-12-21 01:00:33 · answer #7 · answered by Dizzypilot 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
lifters checket out
2006-12-21 01:59:51 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
it will probably stop the knock - you will get slightly better gas milage
2006-12-21 00:55:08 · answer #9 · answered by sweetpicker 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it might stop the knock
2006-12-21 00:53:50 · answer #10 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋