Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction?

AREEVES_2001

MEMBER
1998 FORD WINDSTAR
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
117,000 MILES

I have to get my van smogged for registration, but my check engine light is on. I borrowed a computer reader from a friend and got code-P0340 Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction. Can I fix this on my own or should I take it to a mechanic? If I can fix this on my own HOW?

8 Replies

SCHRIMPIEMAN

MECHANIC
166 POSTS

Believe me, it may seem a little intimidating at first, but if you can get Cyl #1 at 26 degrees after TDC as and make the mark on the crank pulley as described in Step 2, you will be successful.

The article does not mention, however, that the 26 degrees A-TDC needs to be on the COMPRESSION stroke, not the exhaust stroke. If you get your crank on the exhaust stroke, you'll get the code again. Be sure you are on the compression stroke.

I've done this on several Ford V-6 engines and the procedure is flawless!

However, similarily, I've encountered the CMP sensor completely destroyed as well, causing the fault code. This sometimes requires removal of the CMP shaft assembly if the little rotating tab is damaged (where the plasitc CMP sensor actually sits on).

You'll need to move a few items from the immediate area (power steering hoses, serp belt, etc) to gain access to the CMP sensor, but with a little patience, the process is straight-forward.

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

-1

Thursday, December 18th, 2008 AT 11:13 PM

STEPHEN QUIGG

MEMBER
13 POSTS

What happened to step two and the article?

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Thursday, April 20th, 2023 AT 3:25 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

Here are the complete instructions on ow to replace the camshaft angle sensor. Check out the images (below). Please let us know if you need anything else to get the problem fixed.

Images (Click to make bigger)

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Thursday, April 20th, 2023 AT 5:02 PM

STEPHEN QUIGG

MEMBER
13 POSTS

Was wondering. Wouldn't it be simpler to use the alignment tool on the old unit, bumping or turning the engine until you could line it up with the tool? Then remove the unit and use the tool on the new one to reinstall. Rather than trying to find 27 degrees after TDC?

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Thursday, April 20th, 2023 AT 10:45 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

Yep, you are correct, it is easier to proceed with the alignment before the removal of the old unit. Just make sure the alignment is still okay with the new part. You may need to move the oil pump drive rod slightly FYI.