For the L98, what is the affect if you run with the knock sensor disconnected? Error code probably. But does it cause the engine to run any differently? Will it pull advance out or just let the engine run normally?
:)

 

The knock sensor is there to detect if the cylinder(s) has fired when the piston is not in the proper position. (Hence the term "timing") If the piston is moving up and the fuel mixture fires too early,(too much advance) the expanding gas will exert a downward force on the top of the piston as the crankshaft is moving the piston up towards top dead center. This condition will produce a shockwave detectable to the knock sensor. If the condition is particularly severe, you can actually hear this and is commonly referred to as "spark knock" or "pinging". A functioning system will detect this condition long before you hear any noise. This system is particularly uselful with varying grades of fuel. Prolonged exposure (or if you are particularly unfortunate-short exposure) can cause the ring lands to collapse around the ring and the piston will start slapping against the cylinder wall causing a real knock. Now we are talking real money.

When this wonderful system detects a knock, it will retard the timing in 4 degree blocks, see if the vibration is still there, if it is, 4 more degrees. When the knock stops, it will advance the timing in small increments, trying to return the system to normal operation.

If you have a modified engine, have a good scanner, (a dyno is best) pretty skilled tuner, you may be able to fiddle with this feature. Otherwise, I would make sure this system remains fully functional. It is extemely effective should your engine be using some fuel at a lower than required octane level. Like maybe they delivered the wrong fuel, mixed with lower octane fuel, didn't have enough of the right fuel so they added some other, but this probably never happens at all those wonderful gas stations.

In summary, it is best to keep the system operational.

"Corvette Fuel Injection" will explain this system much better. Available at Barnes Noble or Amazon.com. Read this book twice, and you will know a whole lot about your ECM/ESC keeps the motor running. Hope this helps.