How to Clean a Map Sensor on a Dodge Cummins
by Johnathan Cronk
Cummins makes the diesel engines for Dodge heavy-duty pickup trucks. These engines are equipped with a manifold absolute pressure sensor, or MAP sensor. The sensor's function is to measure the amount of air passing through the intake system and into the engine. The measurement is used to adjust the air-to-fuel ratio. When the MAP sensor becomes dirty your "Check Engine" light may appear or you may notice your vehicle running a bit rough. Clean the dust and debris from the sensor to ensure the engine runs efficiently.
Step 1
Park the Dodge vehicle and allow the Cummins engine to cool down. Never perform maintenance under the hood while the engine is still hot.
Step 2
Open the hood of the truck and locate the MAP sensor. The sensor is on the driver side of the vehicle next to the injector pump. The sensor is a small black square box with an electrical harness.
Step 3
Depress the two release tabs on the sides of the electrical harness. This will release the harness. Continue to hold the tabs and pull the harness from the sensor carefully. Place the sensor to the side to avoid damage.
Step 4
Remove the screws that secure the MAP sensor in place with a #15 Torx head. Depending on your make and model of Dodge, you may have two or four screws to remove. Place the screws to the side to ensure they do not get lost during the cleaning process.
Step 5
Remove the sensor from the vehicle. Turn the sensor upside down to expose the underneath sensor components.
Step 6
Clean the sensor with mass airflow cleaner. Spray the sensor with the cleaner until all parts are covered. The cleaner will penetrate the built-up soot, if needed, use a rag to wipe away loose debris. Allow the cleaner to air dry. Reinstall the MAP sensor.
References
Things You'll Need
- Torx #15 head
- Mass airflow cleaner
- Rag
Writer Bio
Johnathan Cronk is a freelance writer and began writing at the age of 18. Throughout his career he has specialized in sports, how-to and advice articles. He has also written sales pitches in the corporate setting since 2001. He studied business at Hudson Valley Community College before transferring to the State University of New York, Albany.
