Detonation/Spark Knock
Checks 
 | Action 
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DEFINITION: A mild
to severe ping, usually   worse under acceleration. The engine makes     
 sharp metallic  knocks  that     change  with throttle opening. 
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Preliminary Checks 
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|     •  | Refer to Important Preliminary Checks Before Starting in 
Symptoms 
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|     •  | If the scan tool readings are normal refer to supporting text
  of the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check and there  are
  no                  engine mechanical faults, fill the fuel tank with a
known   high     quality fuel that meets the vehicles minimum octane requirements.
  Refer    to  Fuel System Specifications
    . 
  Road  test the vehicle and re-evaluate  the vehicles              performance. |  
  
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Fuel   System 
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Ignition   System 
 | Check   the spark plugs for being the proper heat range.
Refer to  
Spark Plug Visual Diagnosis 
  in Engine Electrical.           
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Engine Cooling System 
 | Check for obvious
overheating problems: 
|     •  | Low engine coolant -- Refer to 
Loss of Coolant 
   in Engine Cooling for the type and amount of
engine    coolant to be used. |  
  
|     •  | Restricted air flow to the radiator or restricted coolant flow
  through the radiator. |  
  
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Engine   Mechanical 
 | Check for the following engine mechanical problems: 
|     •  | Excessive oil in combustion chamber -- Leaking valve seals.
Refer   to  
Oil Consumption Diagnosis 
        in Engine Mechanical  4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L. |  
  
|     •  | Combustion chambers for excessive carbon buildup -- Clean
the combustion   chamber by using top engine cleaner. Follow the instructions
 on the can. |  
  
|     •  | Check for incorrect basic engine parts. Inspect the following: |  
  
|     •  | Refer to Engine/Engine Mechanical. |  
  
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Additional   Checks 
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