What is engine knock and what does it sound like? The obvious answer is a "knocking" noise, but I wanted to ask this noob question to make sure. Would it be an obvious noise...or do you really have to listen to hear it. with my mods and no cooling (yet), do you think I have any?

 

Its very noticeable! Its usually a very loud knocking noise ... its almost like a diesel truck. But if you are hearing a noise somewhat like that, then its probably the typical timing chain tensioner.

 

here ya go, nice rod knock
http://youtube.com/watch?v=x9LJP1mw0es

 

Very good description ... I guess that I could have made things easy and just did that, sry.

 

not to be confused with a lifter tick, which will usually go away with throttle

 

Also true ... like most of the Cobalts tick slightly until the lifters get oil pressure