1999 Ford Ranger 4.0 Camshaft Position Sensor Location

The camshaft position sensor (CMP) is vital for the ignition system of your 1999 Ford Ranger’s 4.0L V6 engine. The sensor uses the powertrain control module (PCM) to find the camshaft’s position, which is crucial for the proper timing in opening and closing intake and exhaust valves.

When the camshaft position sensor fails on these Rangers, it can lead to issues like engine stalling, rough idle, poor acceleration, and the dreaded check engine light.

Replacing a faulty cam position sensor is crucial to restore smooth performance and prevent potential engine damage from misfires. On the 4.0L V6, the camshaft position sensor is mounted at the rear of the engine on the intake manifold, right above the oil filter.

It has a two-pin electrical connector and one mounting bolt. Replacing this sensor is straightforward with basic hand tools. An AC Delco camshaft position sensor, part number 213-4786, is a high-quality replacement option for 1999-2001 Ford Ranger pickup trucks with a 4.0 liter engine.

In our guide, you can learn how to get a better experience after knowing the location of the Ford Ranger camshaft position sensor. By the end, you’ll better understand where it is located on the engine and why many think a picture would make things easier. (Learn How To Build A Trike Rear End)

1999 Ford Ranger 4.0 Camshaft Issues

What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Crankshaft Position Sensor?

Here are some issues that seem to come when the sensor is bad, and your engine is running or while trying to start.

  • Occasional Stalling: When the crankshaft position sensor goes bad on your Ford Ranger 4.0L V6, it can cause the engine to randomly stall while driving. This happens because the sensor no longer provides the proper timing signals to the PCM to allow the injectors and ignition system to operate.
  • Engine performance is decreased: A failing crank sensor affects ignition timing, resulting in loss of power, poor acceleration, and reduced fuel economy. The 4.0L V6 will feel sluggish.
  • Trouble starting the car: Without accurate signals from the crankshaft position sensor, the PCM can’t properly time the engine, making starting difficult or impossible in some cases.
  • Check Engine Light: A diagnostic trouble code related to the crank sensor will likely be stored and trigger the check engine light (CEL). Common codes include P0335, P0338, P0340.
  • The engine vibrates or misfires: As timing falls out of sync, the 4.0L V6 can begin to run rough. You may feel perceptible vibrations or shaking coming from the engine bay. Misfiring can also occur.

Replacing a failing crankshaft position sensor can cure these issues and restore proper performance to your Ford Ranger’s 4.0 liter engine. Don’t ignore the symptoms of a bad crank sensor.

Where Is the Camshaft Position Sensor on a 4.0L Ford Ranger?

The CMP sensor on the 4.0L V6 Ranger is located right on the back of the intake manifold, near the distributor.

Specifically, it is mounted on the rear driver’s side of the engine, just above the oil filter. It has a two wire connector plugging into it.

Note: You are in luck if you suffer the same chirping noise in other vehicles. If you have a 2000 Explorer 4.0L OHV engine, you can find the CMP (Camshaft Position Sensor) on top of the back side of the engine, a little behind the intake manifold. You can also find the 2002 Ford Explorer Sport sensor is in the same position. (Read Door Ajar Fuse)

How Do I Remove the Old Camshaft Position Sensor?

Replacing the CMP sensor is straightforward on these engines, and you can quickly pick one up from auto zone.

Here are the steps:

  • Disconnect the negative battery cable to avoid damaging computer systems.
  • Locate the sensor on the rear of the intake manifold. Unplug the electrical connector.
  • Use a small wrench to remove the single hold-down bolt.
  • Pull the old sensor off the engine and disconnect the wiring harness.

Install the New Camshaft Position Sensor

What Type of Replacement CMP Sensor Do I Need?

When buying a new Ford camshaft position sensor, you need one compatible with your 4.0L SOHC engine. The proper replacement part number is F5TZ-12K073-A.

This sensor fits 1999-2001 Ford Ranger pickup trucks, as well as Ford Explorer SUVs of the same era equipped with the 4.0L V6. It is an OE-style direct replacement unit.

How Do I Install the New Camshaft Position Sensor?

Putting in the fresh cam position sensor takes just a few minutes:

  • Plug the wiring harness into the new CMP sensor.
  • Carefully mount the sensor onto the back of the intake manifold.
  • Install and tighten the hold-down bolt to secure it in place using the alignment tool.
  • Reconnect the battery cable when finished.

Note: If you need to replace the sensor, the camshaft synchronizer sensor is compatible with the Mazda B4000 4.0 V6.

Can You Drive With a Faulty Camshaft Synchronizer Sensor?

Driving your 1999-2001 Ford Ranger with a faulty camshaft position sensor is not a good idea. This key sensor tells the PCM the location of the camshaft to properly time the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves.

Without accurate input from the cam sensor, the 4.0L V6 is at risk of misfiring, stalling, and significant power loss. Driving in this condition can overheat and damage the engine. It’s best to have the camshaft position sensor tested and replaced promptly if it’s failed. Don’t attempt to drive with a messed-up cam sensor. (Read Who Makes Motorcraft Oil)

Driving your 1999-2001 Ford Ranger with a faulty camshaft position sensor

Conclusion

In summary, the camshaft sensor is a crucial component in the 4.0L V6 engine of 1999-2001 Ford Ranger pickups, as you can see from the serious explorations people make on Ford Explorer forums. This sensor informs the PCM of the camshaft’s position to properly time the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves.

When this cam position sensor fails, it can cause rough idle, stalling, lack of power, misfires, and error codes. On these 4.0L SOHC Rangers, the sensor is located on the back of the intake manifold, just above the oil filter. Replacing it involves removing one bolt and unplugging the electrical connector.

Installation of a new camshaft position sensor, AC Delco part number 213-4786, is the fix. Watch for symptoms of a bad cam sensor and replace it promptly. Taking care to give a quick response to this repair with basic hand tools is greatly appreciated by your OHV engine for restoring smooth performance and prevent engine issues like misfires.

So don’t hesitate to replace a faulty camshaft position sensor, a cheap fix that keeps your Ford Ranger’s 4.0 liter V6 running optimally.

FAQs

Where is the crankshaft position sensor on a 1999 Ford Ranger?

The crank position sensor is located at the front lower portion of the engine near the harmonic balancer and crank pulley.

Can a bad camshaft position sensor cause a no-start?

Yes, a failed CMP sensor can lead to a no-start condition in some cases. It prevents the PCM from correctly timing the engine, preventing it from starting.

How much does it cost to replace a camshaft position sensor?

The replacement part is inexpensive, usually $25-$50. Labor costs vary by shop, but expect 1-2 hours for the repair, so $100-$200 total.

What tools do I need to change the camshaft position sensor?

Just basic hand tools – a ratchet, extension, 10mm socket, and a small flat blade screwdriver to remove the electrical connector. (Read Can Low Transmission Fluid Cause Overdrive Light To Flash)

How do I test a camshaft position sensor?

Use a multimeter to check the sensor’s output signal. Unplug it, back probe the wires, and check for 4.5-5.25 volt AC signals as the engine cranks. No signal usually means a bad sensor.

1999 Ford Ranger 4.0 Camshaft Position Sensor Location