Crankshaft and Camshaft Position Sensors
Camshaft Position Sensor
Engine timing is determined from the relationship between the crankshaft and camshaft. This relationship is maintained by a timing chain or timing belt. The Engine Management System does not control engine timing but it does monitor the relative position and speed of these shafts by monitoring signals generated by sensors. The Engine Management System (EMS) uses signals generated by the camshaft position sensor to synchronize fuel injection to the valve sequence and for the on-board diagnostic procedure for misfire detection. The EMS energizes the injector at or near the time the intake valve opens. For misfire diagnosis, the EMS compares the number of camshaft sensor reference pulses and the number of crankshaft position sensor reference pulses received. If the EMS receives an incorrect number of pulses Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC’s) should be stored in the EMS.
If the camshaft position sensor or circuit is faulty most engines will start. Some engine management systems will then default to a pre-programmed injector firing sequence. All injectors may be energized simultaneously or all of the injectors on one bank may be energized at the same time. If the CMP data is required for misfire detection and reliable CMP data is not present misfire detection would probably be suspended.
Related Symptoms
The following symptoms can be caused by an intermittent wiring connection or faulty signal to the EMS:
- Extended crank time with a cold engine
- Intermittent rough running
- Unstable idle
- Bucking
- Hesitation
- Stumble
- Chuggle
- Poor fuel economy
- Stalling on acceleration
Crankshaft Position Sensor
Engine speed is a very important input to the Engine Management System (EMS). Crankshaft speed and position are the basis for many calculations made by the computer. Crankshaft position values are transmitted to the computer by pickup coils also known as Permanent Magnet (P/M) generators, hall-effect sensors or optical sensors. The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) also known as engine speed sensor is located in close proximity to the crankshaft.
In addition the EMS uses minute variations in the CKP sensor data to determine engine misfire. The EMS uses this information in conjunction with the camshaft position sensor to perform misfire diagnostics.
Related Symptoms:
No Start/Intermittent Start Condition – Can be caused by a faulty crankshaft position sensor due to loose connections, bad grounds, high resistance in the circuit, or opens in the circuit
cam shaft positon sensor
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