Camshaft position sensor install on engine in rebuild

[CodeWarrior]

I have a 1999 Ranger 4.0l pushrod that I am rebuilding after a blown head gasket. The FSM, during disassembly, did not make ANY mention of timing considerations with regards to the camshaft position sensor. I did not mark anything on the sensor itself or the balancer to match up their positions relative to one another. I also do not see any markings on the gear in the position sensor itself denoting its rotation. Would anyone have any insights in installing the sensor on a freshly rebuilding engine with no prior considerations made to position alignment?

 

[Josh B]

Hey CW, I can't help you much but you will get as extensive help as you need as people drop by, and it shouldn't be far off.

Good luck on your build and welcome to TRS

 

[franklin2]

I see nothing mentioned about timing in this procedure.

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the accessory drive belt.
3. Remove the four bolts securing the A/C compressor to the mounting bracket and set aside.
4. Remove the three compressor/power steering bracket retaining bolts.
5. Pull the bracket, with the power steering pump attached, away from the engine and position it aside.
6. Disconnect the engine control sensor wiring from the camshaft position sensor.
7. Remove the two CMP mounting bolts and then pull the sensor from the oil pump.

To install:

1. Install the CMP sensor to the oil pump and tighten the two mounting screws to 45-61 inch lbs. (5-7 Nm).
2. Reconnect the engine control sensor wiring to the sensor.
3. Position the bracket, with the power steering pump attached, to the engine.
4. Install the three compressor/power steering bracket retaining bolts and tighten securely.
5. Install the A/C compressor to the mounting bracket and tighten the four mounting bolts.
6. Install the accessory drive belt.
7. Connect the negative battery cable. Start the engine and check for leaks.

 

[RonD]

Cam synchro/sensor is not really part of an engine rebuild

Article here on the setup: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/ford-4-0l-camshaft-synchronizer/

There are 2 #1 TDC so to get the correct one if valve covers are on then put a socket wrench on the crank pulley bolt and rotate the engine clockwise until pressure builds up in #1, easier if all spark plugs are still out
You can put a Compression gauge in #1 or just use your finger
When air pressure starts to build up in #1 then keep turning crank and next #1 TDC mark is the correct one

 

[lil_Blue_Ford]

Cam synchro/sensor is not really part of an engine rebuild

Article here on the setup: https://www.therangerstation.com/tech/ford-4-0l-camshaft-synchronizer/

There are 2 #1 TDC so to get the correct one if valve covers are on then put a socket wrench on the crank pulley bolt and rotate the engine clockwise until pressure builds up in #1, easier if all spark plugs are still out
You can put a Compression gauge in #1 or just use your finger
When air pressure starts to build up in #1 then keep turning crank and next #1 TDC mark is the correct one

The article is a little out of whack on the tool information, but yeah. The numbers in the tech archive for the tool only work on some of them and the others require a different part number that isn’t listed.

 

[CodeWarrior]

Ahh, OK. I was looking at the Position Sensor section and things just werent matching up.
Also, I called local shop that I occasionally have work done (and state inspections) and they may have the little plastic alignment tool that I can borrow (303-638). Thanks for instructions.

 

[Josh B]

Don't be a stranger man, let us know how it works for you

 

[CodeWarrior]

Sorry about that.

I borrowed the little plastic alignment tool from my local shop and got the camshaft synchronizer installed (hopefully correctly). Right now I am scrubbing the hell out of the front cover and valve covers. The whole engine was caked in gunky oil (and rust from the coolant system). I'm also have the exhaust manifolds in the electrolysis and plan to paint them tomorrow with some hi-temp Rustoleum primer and paint. That reminds me, I also have a tub of bolts that have been sitting in penetrating oil for a couple of weeks that I need to hit with the wire wheel. Gonna be a dirty day tomorrow.

For your viewing pleasure:
Engine rebuild pics - https://photos.app.goo.gl/Gqm5HUxopDWXp6TW9

Electrolysis - https://photos.app.goo.gl/ATvnMPK9SkWeht6z7