How to Install a Crankshaft Sensor

A crankshaft sensor is a great way to introduce fuel efficiency in your car. If your car is not giving desired mileage or having fuel related issues, then chances are that it is in need of a crankshaft position sensor. The job of this sensor is to ensure that the right amount of fuel is passed on to each cylinder. This has a dual benefit, the engine cylinders get adequate amount of fuel as and when required and do not have the fear of spillage or over flowing . Secondly, the vehicle becomes fuel efficient and gives better mileage. The best way to install the camshaft sensor is to place it on top of the engine cylinder. Though each vehicle has a different make and different requirement, the camshaft sensors can be installed by one themselves.

Tools Required to Install a Camshaft Sensor

• Small screwdriver
• Wrench
• Camshaft position sensor (the type and make would depend on the kind of vehicle)
• Tool box
• O Ring
• Engine Oil

Step 1: Precaution is Better than Cure

Even though you would want to install the camshaft position sensor by yourself, it makes sense to take some professional help. The first step involves consulting a mechanic. The mechanic can give you a good idea about where and how to place the camshaft position sensor. Remember to find out if any part of the engine needs to be removed in order to make way for the camshaft sensor. Also, find out if one camshaft sensor alone would suffice or your vehicle requires two such sensors. Another important consulting material is the auto manual that came with your vehicle. Ensure that you read the finer points and do’s and Don’t section carefully.

Step 2: Switch off the ignition and Unplug all Wires

Before starting your work ensure that the ignition switch is turned off. Also ensure that all negative cable wires have been unplugged to prevent any kind of short circuit in the engine.

Step 3: Unscrew Parts

In most cases, the camshaft position belt needs to be placed below the air filter or the pipe that acts as a heat outlet. Carefully unscrew these parts and remove them to make way for the camshaft sensor.

Step 4: Rotate the Crankshaft

Check the center of the crankshaft where the sensor needs to be placed. Rotate the crankshaft centre until it is properly aligned with the sensor. Also check the location on the cylinder head where the sensor would be placed.

Step 5: Using Oil Coated O Ring

Once the sensor is placed on the cylinder head, you can firm it on place by using an engine oil coated O ring on top of it and tightening it. The O ring would ensure that the sensor does not budge from its assigned location.

Step 6: Connecting Wires

Once the crankshaft sensor is firmly at place, connect all the electrical wires attached with it. Be careful to ensure that those wires with an on and off button have been switched on to ensure the flow of current.

Step 7: Putting Together Engine Parts

Put back all the other engine parts that you must have taken out to put the crankshaft sensor.

Step 8: Replugging

Replug all the negative cable wires as it was at the starting.