1988 celebrity 2.8 Knock sensor

[Dawg 57]

Does anyone know how the clip on the knock sensor is attached ? I want to remove it to replace the sensor,but I can't see how it attaches. Eyes are too old and mirror doesn't help much!
Thanks Dawg 57

[86euro]

You basically just squeeze it and pull it off. There are two little "grips", just squeeze it there.

[Duke George V]

With a little luck, you'll break the clip taking it off, like I did. 20+ year old plastic that's been heat cycled umpteen thousands of times is quite brittle.

[Dawg 57]

Thanks guys, I see AZ offers connector ends. Guess I might as well pick one up while I'm fixing things.Dawg 57

[Dawg 57]

Well guys,my knock sensor was definitely bad. When I got it out,the connector end looked as if it had been struck with something. I may have damaged it myself reaching past it when I replaced the crank sensor. Since the connector appeared to be in one piece,I simply pushed it back onto the new sensor. When I started the car my "code 43" appeared again. I dropped power to the ECM to reset things, but the code came right back. I'll set the torque on the sensor tomorrow and replace the electrical connector. If that doesn't do it, I guess I'll replace the ECM.
Dawg 57

[86euro]

There could be a bad spot in the wire. If I remember right, the wire drops down and goes under the oil pan, then up the front of the motor. I do remember I had an '89 2.8 wagon with a constant code 43, caused by damage to the poorly routed knock sensor wire.

[Dawg 57]

Thanks Andy. I 'll check into the wiring today. I remember that someone said these sensors are extremely sensitive . I think someone suggested 17lbs. torque for these things. I didn't have a small torque wrench when I installed this one, so I gently "guesstimated". It would be easy to surpass 17 lbs. Does anyone have the ability to check ECMs. None of the major auto chains could even check my ignition module back when I was starting repairs. Are there any specifics other than the basic equipment descriptions that need to be mentioned when ordering? Auto Zone offers a rebuilt ECM locally for under sixty dollars.
Dawg 57

[Prospeeder]

Its most likley NOT the ECM, check the wiring, and if you do suspect the ECM, go to the wreckin yard pay 10 bucks for one, and they garentee it works

[Dawg 57]

Finally got around to installing new connector on knock sensor in the 2.8 Fired her up and viola NO CODE 43! Got ambitious and installed the new exhaust system as well as a simple bumper hitch. It's rated at 1000 lbs. so it'll do for light utility towing. If anyone is interested, the hitch is on sale at RacePages for 18.00 plus shipping.