MP SBEC, bad pinging problem, please help!

From: JeffofSLU@aol.com
Date: Thu Dec 17 1998 - 18:57:35 EST

DML,
        I just installed the Mopar Performance computer in my '95 V8 auto. After
installation I took it for a test spin. The first time that I got on the gas
from a dead stop I thought I heard 2 or 3 tapping sounds, but I wasn't quite
sure. These occured around 4000 rpm. I drove it around another 5 minutes or
so, and got on it again from about 45mph. I immediately heard what sounded
like a drum solo of pinging coming from my beloved 318.
        What's the story with this? I thought that running 93 octane (Mopar says the
computer requires 92) would satisfy the computer's needs. I can't see that
anything I've done to the truck so far (headers, MSD, cat-back, pulleys, K&N)
could even contribute much less cause this problem.
        The only possible solution that I can think of would be to install a lower
temp thermostat, but what temp should I go with? I know that running the
engine at too low an operating temp can result in as much damage to the
engine as the pinging and detonation. Has anyone else had this problem? If so,
please tell me how you dealt with it. Thanks in advance.

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