how could i tell if i have a rod knocking?

 

Do you have a knocking noise that is RPM dependent and also occurs when the car isn't moving?

 

yes.

 

but... it doesn't always happen and a lot of times, it stops when im stopped. i've heard of instances when that noise was produced because one of the rod bolts was loose. how can i get to those to check?

 

Rod knock is usually indicative of a scored rod bearing that cannot hold oil pressure. Eventually, if the bearing isn't replaced, it can sieze, then the rod usually ends up in 10 pieces and there will be a nice hole in the front of your block

 

Buy a Helms manual (or download), that should answer a lot of your questions.

 

um ok. thanks