C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

[L98] Knock Sensor Installation Hints

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Old Aug 1, 2005 | 04:32 PM
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Default [L98] Knock Sensor Installation Hints

I'm about to "elevate" my 1985 and install a replacement knock sensor. Any hints? I have the manual - just looking for the collective experience of the forum...

...by the way, those of you who know my (strange) NCRS ways will be interested to know that I'm going with the 1987-1989 sensor, not the service replacement 1984-1986 version. Shocking!

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Old Aug 1, 2005 | 06:59 PM
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Originally Posted by j3studio
I'm about to "elevate" my 1985 and install a replacement knock sensor. Any hints? I have the manual - just looking for the collective experience of the forum...

...by the way, those of you who know my (strange) NCRS ways will be interested to know that I'm going with the 1987-1989 sensor, not the service replacement 1984-1986 version. Shocking!

Shouldn't be any problem, but I would invest a few bucks in the socket made for this removal and I would follow the instructions for never seize on the new part

There is a long pigtail with the replacement, tie it off so it can't get to the exhaust

easy job, have fun

seeya
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Old Aug 1, 2005 | 07:33 PM
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Originally Posted by jackdaroofer
Shouldn't be any problem, but I would invest a few bucks in the socket made for this removal and I would follow the instructions for never seize on the new part.

There is a long pigtail with the replacement, tie it off so it can't get to the exhaust.
Thanks, Jack!

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Old Aug 1, 2005 | 07:39 PM
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Originally Posted by j3studio
Thanks, Jack!


You are welcome!

I did one once and let the pigtail float free, it ended up on the exhaust pipe and I had the pleasure of buying and installing another one!

have fun and seeya soon

Jack
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Old Aug 1, 2005 | 07:40 PM
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Are you also updating the Module to go with that sensor?

OEM Part Numbers - Module, Electronic Spark Control -

'85-'86 p/n 16022621 - New p/n 16126761
'87-'89 p/n 16052401 - New p/n 16038331
'90 p/n 16080211
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Old Aug 1, 2005 | 07:46 PM
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Originally Posted by Bluevette85
Are you also updating the Module to go with that sensor?

OEM Part Numbers - Module, Electronic Spark Control -

'85-'86 p/n 16022621 - New p/n 16126761
'87-'89 p/n 16052401 - New p/n 16038331
'90 p/n 16080211
Probably a good idea...not sure of these part #'s but the Esc for a Malibu was what worked well for me

Jack
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Old Aug 1, 2005 | 09:52 PM
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Originally Posted by Bluevette85
Are you also updating the Module to go with that sensor?

OEM Part Numbers - Module, Electronic Spark Control -

'85-'86 p/n 16022621 - New p/n 16126761
'87-'89 p/n 16052401 - New p/n 16038331
'90 p/n 16080211
Already have a new ESC module (sigh) - I asked previously on C4 Tech and everyone said that it would be fine to use the 1987-1989 knock sensor with the 1985-1986 ESC - is this wrong?
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Old Aug 1, 2005 | 10:06 PM
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If you are replacing the knock sensor, don’t forget that there will be coolant that will run out when you pull out the sensor. Make sure the motor is cold, …or you could drain the coolant out, but it shouldn’t be necessary if you are quick pulling the old one off and getting the new one in the hole really quick.

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Old Aug 2, 2005 | 08:43 AM
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Originally Posted by Hole-Shot
If you are replacing the knock sensor, don’t forget that there will be coolant that will run out when you pull out the sensor. Make sure the motor is cold, …or you could drain the coolant out, but it shouldn’t be necessary if you are quick pulling the old one off and getting the new one in the hole really quick.
Thanks, David.

Can anyone confirm that I'm okay with the slightly newer knock sensor?
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Old Aug 2, 2005 | 10:37 AM
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Originally Posted by j3studio
Thanks, David.

Can anyone confirm that I'm okay with the slightly newer knock sensor?
I used a newer knock sensor on my 85 and have never had a problem. It detects knock when present and doesn't show any when there isn't any. ECM (up graded to the 165) seems happy with the mix and match setup.
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Old Aug 2, 2005 | 10:42 AM
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Originally Posted by Morley
I used a newer knock sensor on my 85 and have never had a problem. It detects knock when present and doesn't show any when there isn't any. ECM (up graded to the 165) seems happy with the mix and match setup.
Thanks, Morley! It's starting to look like this might work out...

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Old Aug 2, 2005 | 12:41 PM
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Be sure to tighten it to the proper torque (I forget what it is, and don't have my Helms with me at work). Too tight will give you false knock readings.

You don't need to drain the coolant, but definitely be prepared to thread the new sensor in as SOON as you pull out the old, to eliminate coolant loss.

Other than that, fairly simple job
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Old Aug 2, 2005 | 01:03 PM
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Another hint, the orange coating that comes on there is all the insulation needed. DO NOT use thread tape or thread compound because that will effect the sensor's acoustic sensitivity.

Torque the sensor back in at the correct specs. I believe it's 15 lbs. but double check your Chevy shop manual to be sure. That's about it really.
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