New Plugs and Wires - Still Pinging - Now What?

[scotts90ranger]

I'd still go with it being a radio problem, when I went with the turbo I converted to one coil pack and didn't mount the capacitor up and I don't get a whine, but I don't run much of an antenna either... (just the pivot ball on the cowl, having the antenna mounted up didn't change my reception so I took it off)

but yes, stock they come with one on each coil pack, the 4.0 with the DIS uses one mounted with it's coil pack too...

 

[scotts90ranger]

I'd still say there's some issue with the radio, when I went turbo and went to the DIS with one coil pack I ditched the capacitor (just didn't want to deal with it at that particular time), I haven't gotten a radio whine yet, but I don't run much of an antenna either, I just have the mount on the cowl as when I had the whole antenna on it didn't get me any better reception so I took it off...

oh, and a side note, it probably still pings in the one area because you don't drive at that load and engine speed very often or hadn't yet, the engine hadn't had a chance to relearn what that particular point needed fuel wise, it should go away after a while.

 

[Byrd]

I'd still say there's some issue with the radio, when I went turbo and went to the DIS with one coil pack I ditched the capacitor (just didn't want to deal with it at that particular time), I haven't gotten a radio whine yet, but I don't run much of an antenna either, I just have the mount on the cowl as when I had the whole antenna on it didn't get me any better reception so I took it off...

oh, and a side note, it probably still pings in the one area because you don't drive at that load and engine speed very often or hadn't yet, the engine hadn't had a chance to relearn what that particular point needed fuel wise, it should go away after a while.

I don't have both of mine on anymore either, but that is the cheapest, and quickest fix that is directly related. You can get the same whine from a ground or power wire that is not properly connected from the alternator in the charging circuit. The cap is just easier to troubleshoot first. But thats also why I asked him if his stereo was aftermarket.

-Byrd

 

[scotts90ranger]

I agree too... was just saying

oops, didn't realize on the double post, and now I see why it didn't look like it went through being on the second page...

 

[JibbaJibba56]

For the radio noise, I know for a fact as I have replaced one is that there is a radio interference capacitor mounted to the front of the engine. I cannot remember the exact location but I think its toward the center front. It looks like the pic and can be bought from a Ford dealership. It's like $33 though. Clears up any engine noise in the speakers though. You could shop crutchfield for some line filters for the speakers or build some yourself from some components from radio shack, not too complicated just need to know the frequency to block and do a quick google search.

 

[blisted]

Ahh I recognize that part and location.
On the 2.3 its on the front of the engine, right between/by the front coil pack and engine coolant sensor (ECT).

 

[shadetree]

My dad's 99 has a predetonation ping that is cured by higher octane fuel.

There is no such thing as "predetonation." It is either detonation, which is the most common symptom, or pre-ignition which is more rare and more deadly. You do not always hear pre-ignition.shady

 

[SMB2500]

Thanks for all the info regarding the radio! And that picture... that part looks familiar... I'll have to open my hood and check that out.

Regarding the pinging.... it came back, and I finally got an error code. Bottom line... too lean (which the symptoms clearly told me). I did a "spray test" around all the gaskets, vacuum lines, etc. to look for any vacuum leaks. And this time, I did it with the engine good and hot. The EGR gasket area stuck out like a sore thumb!! The engine really stumbled when I sprayed a little carb cleaner on the joint. I installed a new gasket yesterday (the old one was toast), and so far, so good... knock on wood!!!

Isn't the Internet great? Really helps me out... all the time! Thanks guys!

 

[JibbaJibba56]

That capacitor is on the front coil pack on the front passenger side post/bolt. Some dealerships may not recognize the name of it but if you read the part number off of it they should help you out. If you can't find it or don't want to drop the ridiculous $32 on that thing, unplug it and install a power line noise filter on radio head unit for $15 and a little DIY.