Engine ping-Aargh!

[chainsaw]

Hi-I've got a 2005 5spd echo (30,000 miles) that pings almost all the time-it's not loud, but fairly persistent under low to moderate accelaration. I've installed hotter plugs, colder plugs, a K&N filter, used SeaFoam, and have tried several tankfuls of high octane. No change. All other maintenance is done on time. The dealer says it's normal and the engine is not being harmed. I can't help but think otherwise. Also-on startup, there is the unmistakable smell of raw gas for a short time. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

[D.A.L]

Just make sure everything is well documented; even go back if you have to, so if this causes you problems in the future you will have a case for a claim. Subaru’s also had a problem like that where the engine sounded like it was knocking all the time but it was due to piston and tolerance design. It also did no harm.
Don