How to Replace the Camshaft Sensor on an F-150
by Dan FerrellA malfunctioning camshaft position (CMP) sensor has a direct impact on the fuel economy and engine power of your Ford F-150. Neglecting the problem or waiting for the sensor to reach the end of its service life will not only cost you money but also keep your engine from starting. Save money now, and keep the engine going and working at its best by following this simple procedure to replace the CMP sensor on your F-150 model.
Remove the CMP Sensor
Step 1
Detach the ground battery cable using a wrench. This is the black cable connected to the battery post with the minus sign next to it.
Step 2
Place a catch pan under the radiator drain valve and remove at least 2 qt. of coolant if you have a 4.2L engine model. This is necessary to gain access to the CMP sensor.
Step 3
Unbolt the heater outlet tube connected to the water pump at the front of the engine if you have the 4.2L engine model. Use a ratchet, ratchet extension and socket.
Step 4
Remove the air cleaner inlet duct assembly to reach the camshaft position sensor if you have a 5.4L engine model. Use a Phillips screwdriver and ratchet and socket.
Step 5
Unplug the camshaft position sensor electrical connector.
Step 6
Unbolt the CMP sensor from the upper front side of the engine using a ratchet, ratchet extension and socket.
Step 7
Remove the CMP sensor from the engine.
Install the New CMP Sensor
Step 1
Set the new CMP sensor in place and tighten the bolts using the ratchet, ratchet extension and socket.
Step 2
Plug the camshaft position sensor electrical connector.
Step 3
Install the air cleaner inlet duct assembly using the Phillips screwdriver and ratchet and socket if you have the 5.4L engine model.
Step 4
Lubricate the O-ring seal on the heater outlet tube with clean coolant if you have the 4.2L engine model. Then set the heater tube in place and tighten the bracket-mounting bolt using the ratchet, ratchet extension and socket. It's recommended to replace the O-ring seal with a new one if the old one's worn or damaged.
Step 5
Refill the cooling system with a 50/50 mixture of distilled water and antifreeze through the radiator filler neck using a small funnel if you have the 4.2L engine model.
Step 6
Attach the ground battery cable using the wrench.
References
- Ford Pick-ups 2004 thru 2006 Haynes Repair Manual; Mike Stubblefield and John H. Haynes; 2006
- Modern Automotive Technology; James E. Duffy; 2003
Things You'll Need
- Wrench
- Catch pan (if necessary)
- Ratchet, ratchet extension and socket
- Phillips screwdriver (if necessary)
- New heater outlet tube O-ring seal (if necessary)
- Distilled water and antifreeze (if necessary)
- Small funnel
Writer Bio
Since 2003 Dan Ferrell has contributed general and consumer-oriented news to television and the Web. His work has appeared in Texas, New Mexico and Miami and on various websites. Ferrell is a certified automation and control technician from the Advanced Technology Center in El Paso, Texas.
