Mk3 2.0 - Ignition timing and stopping pinging?

[Nineball]

Hi all,

I've recently bought a cheap 2.0 Mk3 Golf, and noticed that especially in third gear, the engine is pinging at low speeds and/or under load.

What are the main culprits for this besides timing - should the knock sensor prevent it from happening?

I've looked at the Bentley manual and other websites, and it seems for some engines the timing is entirelly ECU-controlled and for others the timing can be set by rotating the alternator. Which is correct for the Australian delivered 2.0?


Thanks!