I think Im fighting detonation

Decided to keep the tbird for a while. I want to get it in tip top shape so I can race it without spending any money lol (good luck).

I've been talking to Pete about this for the past week. anyway.... If anybody has seen my last two headgaskets I have them blowing out the sides. the last one that blew I installed head studs and used a brand new torque wrench.

When the last two blew the KS was unhooked. I think Im getting some ping that isnt really audiable over the cars typical noise.

Im running 20 PSI with a T3 on a N/A head, with stock timing. Motor doesnt burn any oil. Entire fuel system is brand new (pump, injectors, afpr, filter).

Pete was telling me that injectors running lean or dirty can possibly be a problem, I also read burning oil can cause it as well.

Couple people think Im under estimating the difference one more point on the CR can do. But then again I know guys running the same setup almost with no problems.

My first step is to check FP during boost since my fp gauge is on the fuel rail it is hard todo. I feel that this isnt the problem. what do the experts think?

Not 100% sure on this one brian, but I think the chamber design of the NA head (besides the higher CR) is more prone to detonation than the turbo head is.

Are you 100% sure the head and block are within spec for flatness?

Seeing if FP increases 1:1 with boost is a good place to start..... it will rule out fuel pressure problems.

What HG are you using?

You really need to know what fuel pressur you get when boosting. I know geting a gauge you can read while driving can be a pain but you need to know, given your situation

This last time I checked flatness and everything was good. My feeler gauge only went to .002.

Yea I have to get some kind of attachment for my fp gauge. My narrowband a/f gauge says its rich but i realize that isnt really helping much.

Im using the 8993 b/c i didnt have time to wait for the 1035 from summit.

Has anybody ever heard of a shelf life on headgaskets?
the last one to blow was given to me from a friend. the part number was the factory ford part number from 1988. I dont know where they have been if they got wet or what i was unsure of using it but it was free.

I know it's a step backward but I think I'd try reconnecting the knock sensor; IMHO changing the headgasket is a PITA. If the computer starts pulling timing on you then, it's probably a safe bet that you have detonation. At that point maybe it's time to comsider Jeff's water injection system.

Just my 2¢ FWIW.

Joe Im ahead of you... I read the article you posted and even saved it as a favorite on detonation and pre-ignition very good article helped me out alot.

Since the last gasket change the KS has been hooked up.

I put a hold on the water injection system I was building b/c I thought I was gonna be finished with the car. I have most of the parts I just need the nozzle and tubing and I can put it together.

I have to work on a cheap line for my fp gauge time to hit up summit.