knock sensor on a /6??

[Hammer]

So I've been doing some extensive reading about ignition timing of engines running boost, and from what I have read, knock sensors are the way to go. Apparently the MSD ignition boxes that retard the timing "X" amount of degrees per psi of boost can give you a great top end, but a saugy middle. So my question is: can a bosch knock sensor be installed on a slant 6, and if so where would it go?

 

[moper]

Yes. Any sensor can. You need a thick spot on the block, where you can drill a 3/8" deep hole and thread it. It can't penetrate the crankcase or cooling jacket and done properly, the sensor should just touch the bottom of the hole when tight. I would go lower on the block because harmonics in the valvetrain up top can cause false readings too.

 

[Hammer]

There's no easier way? Drilling the block isn't really an option for me at this point. I've heard of them being put in the intake manifold before. Any merit to that?

 

[slantsixdan]

Problem with knock sensor on pre-1981 slant-6 engine: mechanical lifters, which even when adjusted properly make noise (you can't hear it but the sensor can) that is close enough to what a ping sounds like that the knock sensor will fire, and your ignition box will respond by retarding the timing.

 

[805moparkid]

Problem with knock sensor on pre-1981 slant-6 engine: mechanical lifters, which even when adjusted properly make noise (you can't hear it but the sensor can) that is close enough to what a ping sounds like that the knock sensor will fire, and your ignition box will respond by retarding the timing.

2x there dan!