36-Speed & Position Sensor
36-Speed & Position Sensor
The Camshaft Position Sensor, Crankshaft Position Sensor, and one type of vehicle speed
sensor are of the pick-up coil type sensor.
This type of sensor consists of a permanent magnet, yoke, and coil. This sensor is mounted
close to a toothed gear. As each tooth moves by the sensor, an AC voltage pulse is induced in
the coil. Each tooth produces a pulse. As the gear rotates faster there more pulses are
produced. The ECM determines the speed the component is revolving based on the number of
pulses. The number of pulses in one second is the signal frequency.
Not all rotors use teeth. Sometimes the rotor is notched, which will produce the same effect.
These sensors generate AC voltage, and do not need an external power supply. Another
common characteristic is that they have two wires to carry the AC voltage.
The wires are twisted and shielded to prevent electrical interference from disrupting the signal.
The EWD will indicate if the wires are shielded.
By knowing the position of the camshaft, the ECM can determine when cylinder No. I is on the
compression stroke. The ECM uses this information for fuel injection timing, for direct ignition
systems and for variable valve timing systems.
This sensor is located near one of the camshafts. With variable timing V-type engines, there is
one sensor for each cylinder bank. On distributor ignition systems, it is often called the G
sensor and is located in the distributor.
An AC signal is generated that is directly proportional to camshaft speed. That is, as the
camshaft revolves faster the frequency increases.
On some vehicles, the vehicle speed sensor signal is processed in the combination meter and
then sent to the ECM.
On some anti-lock brake system (ABS) equipped vehicles, the ABS computer processes the
wheel speed sensor signals and sends a speed sensor signal to the combination meter and
then to the ECM. You will need to consult the EWD to confirm the type of system you are working
on.
2. Explain in detail how an magnetic pick up coil type Cam or Crank sensor works.
3. Explain how the PCM (ECM) uses the Crankshaft position sensor signal.
4. Draw the scope pattern of both a Cam sensor and Crank sensor.
5. What is the function of a vehicle speed sensor (VVS) and list the three types.