My '98 4x4 CC, 5.2L, 3.55, auto does the same thing. I was using 87 octane
BP gas when I noticed it, so I filled up the next couple times with Premium
93 octane. The pinging subsided a little, but it was still there. The
engine actually seemed to do a little worse, performance wise, with the
premium gas. I have switched back to the 87 octane for now because the
premium is too expensive. I plan on mentioning this to the dealer tomorrow
when I take my truck in to find out why my "Check Engine" light came on and
to have my front left wheel bearing replaced for the second time.
Chris Buelterman
'98 Dak CC
3100 miles
----------
From: Michael & Jeannine Reynolds
To: 'dakota-truck@buffnet.net'
Sent: 5/9/98 5:14:21 PM
Subject: DML: Engine pinging
I have a '98 Dakota 4X4 CC with a 318, automatic, 3.55 rear and the tire &
handling package. Yesterday, while my wife and I were on our way home from
work, we pulled out onto a road and started moderately accelerating up steep
hill. I then heard the engine start pinging, so I backed off some and of
course, it subsided. Then I floored it. It pinged momentarily before the
trans shifted down to second, then revved without any pinging. I was using
89 octane Shell plus gas. Thinking that I might have some bad gas, I went
to the Autozone and picked up some STP gas treatment (the concentrate). I
had less than 1/4 tank, and I put this stuff in and filled up with premium
(93 octane). This has helped a bit, but I still notice a small tendency for
pinging if I give it 1/2 throttle to accelerate in OD. Do you guys (and
gals) think that I have some bad gas, or is there something in the engine
management system that is causing the engine to run a little lean? How long
should I wait before I eliminate the bad gas possibility and take it to a
dealer? I know that there is no way to adjust or check the base line
timing. Thanks in advance for your responses.
Michael Reynolds
'98 Dakota 4X4 CC
5.2L, Flame Red, 2200 miles
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