How Do I Check a Crank Sensor?
A crank sensor is a component used to monitor a crankshaft's rotational speed in a vehicle. A malfunctioning crank sensor can negatively impact engine operation, and should be checked for any suspected problems.
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Ohmeter
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A crank sensor can be checked with an ohmmeter, which is a device that measures electrical resistance. In order to use the ohmmeter, the operator should unplug the crank sensor's connectors while the engine is turned off and connect the device's leads to the crank sensor's connector pins.
AC Voltage
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Once the ohmmeter is set to measure alternating current (AC) voltage, a second individual can start the engine. If the ohmmeter does not read between 300 and 350 ohms, then the crank sensor is faulty and should be replaced.
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Pick-Up Magnet
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Crank sensors contain a pickup magnet centered in the housing of the sensor. The magnet's positioning should be perpendicular to the teeth of a flywheel, and should show an air gap of between .02 and .06 inches. If the magnet is improperly centered, it can be adjusted to correct the crank sensor problem.
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References
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- Photo Credit sand car engine image by Clarence Alford from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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My l996 Chrysler 2.4 engine quits sporadically at low or high speeds. At intersections when turning it can be a problem trying to make a turn in traffic. Also causes a load on the tranny when on cruise control and it dies, causing a banging in the drive train. I have been told it's probably the crank sensor going bad. Any thoughts? Thanks. J Mike Kimbley.
