Disabling ECS knock sensor on 3800 engine?

I've got a 95 Olds Silhouette with 3800 engine. Recently it's lost power and a diagnostics place says the knock sensor (Electronic Spark Control) is "hearing" a very slight internal knock at 2000 rpm, misinterpreting it as spark knock, and retarding the timing 15 degrees ..with significant loss of power. They said nothing can be done and mentioned maybe "a replacement engine". They've got to be kidding. Some computer system is accidentally retarding my ignition timing and I'm supposed to replace the engine ..or scrap the car out?? Anyone have a less drastic solution? Thanks.

Reply to
M.Burns
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I would more suspect that the knock sensor is loose/improperly torqued, or bad..

Reply to
Robert Hancock

It is more likely that it is hearing some mechanically loose component. If you are lucky it could even be external. Switch to highest possible octane and see if you get the same result. If you do than yo probably have a mechanical rattle somewhere,.Tighten everything including the knock sensor mount. Get a second opinion. I get a feeling that someone is try to sell you an engine and get your good one in the deal.

Reply to
Boris Mohar

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