Camshaft Position Sensor: Description and Operation

Fig 8 Camshaft Position Sensor:

CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
The camshaft position sensor provides cylinder identification to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (Fig. 8). The sensor generates pulses. The PCM determines crankshaft position from the camshaft position sensor and crankshaft position sensor inputs. The PCM uses the input to determine fuel injection synchronization and to determine which electric ignition coil to energize.

Fig 9 Camshaft Sprocket:

The camshaft position sensor detects when a step in the camshaft sprocket passes beneath it (Fig. 9). When the sensor detects the step, the input voltage from the sensor to the PCM switches from low (0.3 volts) to high (5 volts). As the step returns away from the sensor, the input voltage switches back to low (0.3 volts).

Fig 10 Camshaft Position Sensor Location:

The camshaft position sensor is mounted in the front of the timing case cover (Fig. 10). The bottom of the sensor is positioned in front of the camshaft sprocket.

CIRCUIT OPERATION
The camshaft position sensor is located on the front of the timing cover.

Circuit K7 supplies 5 volts from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to the camshaft position sensor. The K7 circuit connects to cavity A17 of the PCM.

Circuit K44 from the sensor provides an input signal to the PCM. The K44 circuit connects to cavity A18 of the PCM.

The PCM provides a ground for the camshaft position sensor signal (circuit K44) through circuit K4. Circuit K4 connects to cavity A4 of the PCM connector.