Knock sensor on 351W?

[PSB]

Anyone ever installed a knock sensor on a 351W? Is there a provision for one on the block (I have an '84 block). If not, is there a way to mount one?

Thanks,


Pete

[SFfiredog]

Knock sensors like to be mounted in the block near the top of the deck if possible. That location makes for the best place to sense detonation
Without drilling and tapping your block the only available space is in one of the bosses on the right side of your block. the boss near the starter would be the best place but the starter may be in the way. the other boss is at the front of the right side.
One thing to remember is if your engine has forged pistons or a noisy valve-train they can trigger the knock sensor and play havoc with your timing and fuel curve. Some systems will allow you to adjust the sensitivity of the sensor.
Unless you are running really high compression, nitrous or a supercharger you may want to consider disabling the knock sensor system. It really isn't that nessessary
--Mike

[PSB]

Mike,

Thanks for the input - the reason I'm interested in a knock sensor is I'm running 11.5:1 compression.

Pete

[SFfiredog]

Hi Pete,
Yeah, 11.5 to 1 is a good reason for a knock sensor.
The sensor may cause the engine to run erratic when it is cold because the engine is more "noisy" to the sensor when the clearances and valve-train are loose. As the engine warms up it will quiet down and the sensor sould hear less "noise"
Good luck,
--Mike