How to Replace the Camshaft Position Sensor on a 2001 Chevrolet Tracker

by Kyle McBride

Chevrolet equipped the 2001 model-year Tracker with a camshaft-position (CMP) sensor which detects the position of the camshaft and synchronizes the fuel-injection system. The sensor reads a reluctor wheel on the camshaft to determine the shaft's position and speed. Since the CMP sensor inputs data for engine timing, a malfunctioning sensor's symptoms are similar to those of other timing issues which include rough idling, stalling, hesitation and weak acceleration. The CMP sensor is relatively inexpensive and can be replaced with basic hand tools.

Step 1

Locate the camshaft-position (CMP) sensor on the rear of the cylinder head on the driver's side. The sensor's housing is round, has a single electrical connector plugged into it and has a flange with a slotted bolt-hole.

Step 2

Scribe the cylinder head with a flat-tip screwdriver to mark the position of the slotted flange. Unplug the connector from the sensor housing.

Step 3

Remove the bolt from the flange with a Philips screwdriver. Remove the camshaft-position sensor.

Step 4

Install the new O-ring onto the new CMP sensor. Coat the O-ring lightly with clean engine oil.

Step 5

Align the coupling on the end of the sensor with the slot in the end of the camshaft. Insert the sensor into the cylinder head.

Step 6

Reinstall the sensor housing's mounting bolt into the slotted flange but leave it somewhat loose so the flange can be rotated. Align the flange with the scribe mark on the cylinder head, then tighten the bolt to 11 pound-feet.