detonation

[lessthanjakejohn]

what is detonation?

[ItzGenX]

man if you dont know what detonation is, then you really shouldnt bother with cars. go to http://www.howstuffworks.com and check out the modern automobile engine. you might learn 999% more then you already know.

[SpeedRacer1]

Basically detonation is commonly when the engine goes 'pop' after it is running way too lean. Hence the reason that SRs run pretty rich, that way the ecu is ensuring itself the engine wont blow up. The more lean the more power you get but you know youve gone too far when the engine detonates. Its a trade off.

[BuudWeizErr]

I believe it's caused by the A/F mix igniting itself on the compression stroke, caused by being too lean. Theoretically, it can damage some stuff.

Corrections?

[ItzGenX]

Buud you are correct. Detonation not only occurs from being lean, but it can be caused by many other factors such as high boost or HOT intake air. Sometimes its just simple too low of octane for the application. Also it can be caused when compression is too high. In terms for a newb, detonation is when your fuel burns when you don't want it to.

[sapix @ RHIT]

Most engines can take some detonation before severe damage occurs, rotaries don't do well with detonation at all. On a rotary damage can occur about as quick as you can tell its happening. You just have to listen to the engine.