Detonation problems: Help?

[shacar87]

silverSN95,
Sorry, I forgot about your other questions! The wires are a possibility. Usually it's a fuel or timing problem, but your ignition system does have alot to do with it. As for the thermostat, that shouldn't be the problem. You actually will predetonate or spark-knock (ping) quicker on a warmer engine than a cooler one. Heat alone can cause the problem. That's why aluminum head motors are harder to make spark-knock, because the aluminum disperses the heat better, therefore helping it.

A good definition of spark-knock: the pinging or rattling noise sometimes heard during acceleration that indicates detonation is occurring inside the engine. Spark knock can be caused by a variety of things including using low octane fuel, over-advanced ignition timing, too much compression (often due to a buildup of carbon in the combustion chamber), by an inoperative EGR valve, and/or by too much heat. If switching to a higher octane fuel doesn't cure the problem, the cause should be investigated because prolonged or heavy knocking can damage the engine.

This might also give you a couple of ideas of what to look at. Hope this helps you out!