Pinging problem
I BOUGHT a 1993 Toyota SEG 1.6 six months ago. After a month, I noticed an occasional “clinking” sound coming from the engine on acceleration. This does not happen on deceleration or when the vehicle is cruising. My mechanic thinks the sound is caused by the misfiring of platinum-type spark plugs. I had new spark plugs, installed but the noise returned within a few weeks.
Stanley Ngooi
The clinking noise you hear on acceleration is known as detonation or pinging. It is fairly common with petrol engines and is caused by pre-ignition, improper ignition timing settings, or overheating within the combustion chamber. The last can be caused by carbon deposits or if you use spark plugs of an improper heat grade. In your case, changing the spark plugs seemed to solve your problem, albeit temporarily. Thus, they appear to be the prime suspect.
With the discovery of new alloys, spark plugs are no longer classified according to their heat grading (hot or cold). A hot plug operates at a higher temperature, and vice- versa. Fitting spark plugs of the incorrect heat rating in your vehicle could result in severe engine damage.
Modern spark plugs have a wide heat range. But there are still differences in the heat range of plugs manufactured by the different makers. Hence, one make may work perfectly well on your engine but not another, thus pinging results. Although manufacturers of platinum plugs claim their products are smooth and can last long, they are not every one’s cup of tea. I would suggest that you fit the make and model of spark plugs recommended by your vehicle manufacturer to see if it solves your problem.
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