spark knocking and idle sticking

What kind of "computer chip" (brand, generic or custom tune...) are you running?

Unless you got a bad batch of gas chances are your timing is set too high.

Was this at wide open throttle or just while normally driving?

romgolferman:

As suggested, check that the chip is firmly seated and hasn't moved. Next, look for a vacuum leak (so check all the hoses connected to the intake, the PCV hose, and the clamps). Pull the PCV and shake it, it should rattle easily. Clean your IAC valve and be careful not to tear the gasket when removing the valve from the upper plenum.

HTH,

Chris

romgolferman:

If the knocking is audible through the RPM range, it is likely a rod (sorry to say). But it could be related to the clutch since that is a known problem and transmission sounds can imitate engine sounds.

If it is a rod, you have company. I have come across quite a few rod knock threads and one frequent cause is low oil level. Not severely low, either, just a quart. A run up to redline and the missing volume usually is what does the rod in. On the bright side, you can get the bottom end built nicely and it will handle anything thrown at it.

I hope it's the clutch and not a rod problem.

Chris

romgolferman:

The IAC is the little silver can that is on the upper plenum and it points at you. There is an electrical connector on it. Take it off carefully so the gasket does not rip and then you can watch the pintle move as you put 5 V to the solenoid. It will click open and closed as you put voltage on and off.

Rod knock will be heard from idle up through the RPM range and will not fade. It sounds like your engine may not be suffering from rod knock if the noise is intermittent. That is good news.

Are you hearing injector noise through the intake? That sound is more 'clicky' than a knock, though. Chain guide is another possibility. The cam chains ride over banana-shaped guides and there have been some threads (maybe here?) where the plastic lining has separated from the aluminum arm. This can make for some racket at start-up and under load. Not a high pitched click, not a knock, somewhere in between.

Chris