GMC Knock Sensor

Engine knocking or fuel detonation is detrimental to the normal function of the engine. It is not only disruptive, causing power loss, it is also dangerous. In extreme cases, it can cause the engine to explode. One way of counteracting engine knock is by adjusting the sparkplug ignition rate. Another way is to reduce the amount of fuel injection. However, manually doing this is impractical. Hence, the electronic control unit or ECU of the engine automatically does the adjustments. In order to do adjustments, the ECU must first receive data from the knock sensor. A knock sensor like the GMC knock sensor is one of the standard sensors found in a modern automobile. It is a piezoelectric microphone that is embedded on the engine block. Its main function is to detect engine knock.

Engine knocking or fuel detonation is an explosive and disruptive anomaly in the burning of fuel. It occurs when an unburned residual mixture of fuel and air is pressurized and instantaneously ignited before optimal compression is reached. This causes the rapid rise in pressure inside the combustion chambers. The instant and extreme pressure pushes the pistons beyond their design limits. If fuel detonation occurs frequently at prolong period of time, this could lead to irreversible damage of engine parts. For instance, the gaskets may rupture just to release the pressure. The valves may become busted. The pistons and crankshaft may become dislocated.

Engine knocking can be prevented in several ways. Using fuel with higher octane rating may prevent engine knocking. Fuels with higher octane rating are less prone to premature ignition. Air to fuel ratio may also be reduced by increasing the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chamber. The pressure in the cylinders may also be significantly reduced by increasing the engine revolution, using lower gear ratio. By decreasing the manifold pressure or throttle opening, engine knocking can also be avoided. It is commonly when there is plenty of air supply and the engine is at high gear that engine knocking occurs.

A knock sensor is just an aid in counteracting engine knock. Although a knock sensor does not directly participate in counteracting engine knock, it helps the ECU in making the appropriate adjustments to counteract engine knock. By sending the correct data, the ECU is able to execute proper adjustments. A knock sensor is typically designed to be rigid enough to withstand the extreme mechanical stress and heat produced by the engine. However, it is still susceptible to wear and tear. If it is time to replace the knock sensor of your engine, Parts Train is the most reliable online shop to provide you with the best aftermarket knock sensor.