The way I understand it the PCM flash should be a last resort. They try to get rid
of the pinging by backing off the timing. This hurts the performance.
Doug Fedeli
bernd@texas.net wrote:
> Hi Jason,
>
> This is pretty common among the Dakota's and isn't really engine specific...and
> there could be multiple reasons why the engine pings but here's a few options:
>
> (1) Bad Gas - Unlikely but possible
> (2) Spark Plug wires routed the wrong way - Dealer has a TSB out on this
> (3) Blown Belly Pan Gasket - Dealer has a TSB out on this (Warranty work)
> (4) PCM flash required - Dealer has a TSB out on this
>
> These are the four main causes for excessive "pinging".
>
> A few of the fixes are as follows:
>
> (1) Run the next grade higher on octane rating
> (2) Install a 180 degree T'Stat
> (3) Install one heat range colder plug (Autolite 3923 or 5223)
> (4) Change the plug wires to a higher quality one (MSD, Taylor, Jacobs, etc.)
> (5) With 17K miles on the truck, take it back to the dealer and have them fix
> it. (PCM Flash, Plug Wire reroute, belly pan fix, etc.)
>
> There's been repeated fixes from the dealer on this and some have worked (and
> some haven't). I've been keeping a record of the pinging problem with our
> Dak's (got a little bit lazy on the updates...soon to be fixed) and you'd be
> surprised on just how many have this problem. Again, the fixes listed are the
> more common ones but they may not be the "cure" for the problem.
>
> Bernd D. Ratsch
> Pflugerville, TX
> http://www.toycrusher.com
>
> > Hi DML,
> >
> > My dakota has been pinging lately and it drives me nuts. I notice it when I
> > accelerate hard and when I start from a dead stop. I have a 2000 dak, 3.9L
> > V6, 5-speed. It has 17,000 miles and has no modifications to the engine or
> > drive trian. I use 87 octane (usually BP, Shell, or Chevron) because thats
> > what the manual says to use. Spark plugs have not been changed. Has anyone
> > had this problem? If so, is there anything you can do to correct the
> > problem? Thanks for the help.
> >
> > Jason
> >
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