Spark Retard Error on Computron dispay

[SunnyBayMalibu]

1994 Echelon with 454 EFI MerCruiser, "spark retard error" on my computron dash with the value of 43, and I cannot reset. The boat runs okay, any suggestions? Thanks.

Edited August 11, 2009 by SunnyBayMalibu

[nuttyskier2002]

1994 Echelon with 454 EFI MerCruiser, "spark retard error" on my computron dash with the value of 43, and I cannot reset. The boat runs okay, any suggestions? Thanks.

Have you tried disconnecting the battery for 15 seconds?

[SunnyBayMalibu]

Yes, I have disconnected the battery and the message still appears on the display.

[nuttyskier2002]

Code "43" is related to the knock sensor and the ESC (electronic spark control) module. The knock sensor is screwed into the drain plug hole at the bottom of the engine block (at least that's where it is on the 350,... 454 may be located elsewhere but somewhere on the block). The ESC module is located on the side of the distributor. This was a very common failure on GM engines of that era. There is a procedure to troubleshoot but you need a wiring diagram of that circuit. I'd just replace the knock sensor first. They are sort of on the fragile side. Be very carefull when tightening it. You can damage it very easily if you overtorque it.

[NorCaliBu]

"spark retard error"

Better be careful..the PC Police might show up and .

"developmentally challenged spark error" would be a much kinder, gentler message.

[/hi-jack] Just had to vent about PCBS.

Edited August 13, 2009 by NorCaliBu

[nuttyskier2002]

"spark retard error"

Better be careful..the PC Police might show up and .

"developmentally challenged spark error" would be a much kinder, gentler message.

[/hi-jack] Just had to vent about PCBS.

Pretty funny!

[DIRTYORR4]

I just posted this same problem two weeks ago. My 454 EFI says the exact same thing, but I also have another problem - whether or not it is related to this, I don't know, but it has cut out on us a couple of times at about 40 MPH, completely dead, no electrical, no power, then had to wait five minutes and hit the reset button on the motor to get it to go again. I did a google search also and thought it might have something to do with the knock sensor. I have not tried to fix the problem yet. The boat is up at the lake and I don't know where the knock sensor is located on mine either. If you find your problem out or I find out mine, please post. Thanks!

[SunnyBayMalibu]

Not sure of the knock sensor location on the 454?

[nuttyskier2002]

Not sure of the knock sensor location on the 454?

This is what the GM knock sensor looks like (the gold one). http://www.wellsmfgcorp.com/pdf/counterp_v4_i4_2000.pdf. Look at the side of the engine block,..... down by the top of the oil pan,..... about half way between the front and back of your engine.

[SunnyBayMalibu]

Finally replaced the knock sensor, and that solved the problem for 24 hours. The next day the spark retard error 43 returned. Might be a faulty knock sensor, boat still runs great, so I have to get another knock sensor and see what happens when replaced again.