I would like to put this in the Engine Management forum as it would seem more appropriate there.. Forgive.

I'd like to hear what others are using to listen to knock. Either a product you've bought or something you've constructed.

Thanks!

 

I've been using the TurboXS tuner with the bosch knock sensor it includes and a pair of headphones.. I have it mounted on the head, so it picks up valvetrain noise, but I chose the location because its near the cyl furthest from the fuel rail inlet.

 

I've constructed an electronic stethescope in the past too.. it has basically a knock microphone mounted on a neodynium magnet so I can attach it on the block somewhere if I need to listen to a particular area for noise.. Obviously it doesn't "Stick" to anything thats nonferrous so I don't use it much anymore..

 

How would a APEXI safc 2 hooked up to the factory knock sensor work?

 

Any other products you can suggest Jack? I've got a LM-1 and it wouldn't be cost effective to buy a Tuner as well.

 

another option is the knock-link.. But any small amplifier that you can hook up to a bosch sensor will work.. the knock sensor is really just a microphone.. the better tools out there will do the listening for you if you set the discrimination to a level that is accurate.. It just happens to be that the human ear can catch it if your knowing what your listening for..

I have to admit it does take a little "presence of mind" to drive a car hard, listen for the noise, and make a mental note of the approx RPM.. so anything that is electronic is definitely helpful, anything that can log data too is even better..

Partly the reason why I chose the TurboXS tuner Pro, even as a standalone unit, it can capture MAP sensor (pressure/vacuum) EGT, Knock, and I think two additional inputs, plus you can purchase an inductive pickup for the RPM (Doesnt work on coil on plug systems though)

The only other product I've seen used regularly is the Knocklink device, but it has indicators for knock and sensitivity adjustments.. however I think you still need to listen for it regardless.. and without logging, you need to make note of the RPM's you hear noise.

Most important thing is to train your ears to tell the difference between normal noises and detonation so it becomes second nature.