Thread: Sounds like ping (detonation)

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Before I run off and spend some more money, kinda curious if anyone has had an MSD detonation/ping from plug wire crossfire. I hear it at low rpm or if I lug it a bit, i.e. puttering into the garage. Knowing that the MSD box "throws" a strong double spark below 2500-3000 rpm has me wondering if I need some 'upgrades' as far as wire or dist. cap.

- 8479 small dia. billet distributor set to the 'E' curve but it still did it with the ho hum 'as shipped' curve
- 6AL box
- 8200 coil
- Taylor Spiral Pro 8mm wires (few miles, but 5-6 + years old)

MSD does sell an adapter to use the wide Ford style cap, but I have currently have the alternator pretty close to the dizzy.

No vacuum leaks, the Edelbrock 1405 carb is set identical to the one I had on my 356cid 351W so it shouldn't be lean, but......

I've had to back off a few degrees on initial timing with the MSD boxes--Maybe the multiple spark starts a bit early or something???

Originally Posted by Dave Severson

I've had to back off a few degrees on initial timing with the MSD boxes--Maybe the multiple spark starts a bit early or something???

Kinda what I thought too, Dave, but I'm at 10* +/-1 after trying 14-16* recommended on a Ford site Might try another 1-2 down though

you know you might want to close the OHdoor turn off the lights and look under the hood. I've seen some real light shows before.

Originally Posted by cffisher

you know you might want to close the OHdoor turn off the lights and look under the hood. I've seen some real light shows before.

Charlie - I hadn't seen any sparkles, but not looked lately so will.

I WONT take your advice about closing the OH door though while I run the car, but just wait for night

Probably a good idea.

What octane fuel are you running? low octane fuels have to have the timing retarded by about 40%, If you run 10* advance on 93- 94 octane and you run 87 octane....timing should be around 5-6* .....if set at 14-15* on premium.....then 9* +/- 1* should be great on 87 octane

Originally Posted by RadRidesByDan

What octane fuel are you running? low octane fuels have to have the timing retarded by about 40%, If you run 10* advance on 93- 94 octane and you run 87 octane....timing should be around 5-6* .....if set at 14-15* on premium.....then 9* +/- 1* should be great on 87 octane

So far I only use 'premium' gas and it's supposed to be 93 octane (Hess or Mobil)