Have you ever experienced a hole in your engine? Such a situation is not pretty. Repairing a hole in your engine may require the entire engine to be replaced, coming at a cost close to what your car is worth. If your vehicle was manufactured during the 90s (and before), it may be susceptible to engine knock.
Engine knock occurs when there's an incorrect balance of fuel and air in your engine's internal combustion cylinders. In a normal engine, fuel burns in small, dedicated pockets. If an imbalance occurs inside these pockets, the fuel will burn unevenly and cause your shocks to operate abnormally. In fact, your shocks may fire off at the wrong time and damage your engine walls (leading to a hole in the chassis).
Here's how you can prevent engine knock from damaging your vehicle.
Keep your engine oil topped up
Low engine oil is one of the most common causes of engine knock. Without enough oil, there will be imbalances between the air and fuel inside your engine's cylinders. In addition, low oil results in friction between your spark plugs and other engine components. Make sure your engine oil is properly topped off when driving.
Ensuring enough octane content in your fuel
The fuel you use also has a role in preventing engine knock. Fuel should have a high enough octane rating to prevent improper combustion.
Each vehicle has its own manufacturer-recommended octane rating for fuel used. Make sure you consult your manual or vehicle manufacturer for advice on the appropriate octane rating.
Fixing faulty spark plugs
Your spark plugs are responsible for igniting the fuel and air mixtures in your engine. If they don't function as expected, your engine cylinders may eventually experience knock. In older vehicles, spark plugs tend to get worn out over time. In fact, most repair technicians will recommend replacing your spark plugs after they begin to show signs of wear.
You should remember to have your spark plugs checked and replaced as necessary so as to avoid engine knock.
Keep your engine walls clean
In older vehicles, carbon deposits tend to accumulate on the cylinder walls of your engine. Most vehicle fuels require a certain level of carbon- which acts as a cleaning agent. However, these carbon deposits can accumulate and clog up your cylinders (especially in older vehicles).
Make sure your engine walls and cylinders are cleaned so as to remove such deposits. For more information and assistance, contact your local mechanic today.