I know, I've posted this problem before, but I have a tapping sound that seems to be coming from my exhaust when the engine is under load (either hard acceleration or going up steep hills). This happened after I had the head pipe assembly replaced.
The 2 mechanics I have had look at it keep calling it "spark knock" and they want to drop the issue at that. What is "spark knock", and what can be done about it? Is it caused by not getting good ignition? I am running premium gas, but that only makes it sound bad instead of terrible. I'm starting to think that "spark knock" is a term given to any sound that they can't (or don't want to) identify. (kinda like sending a newbie to the store looking for muffler bearings)
The car has 145k miles on it, and most people only look at that and say that the car is about used up. I disagree since I'm the only owner on the car, and I know how well it's been maintained.
The main thing I'm looking for here is what "spark knock" is, what causes it, and what can be done about it.
Thanks-