CRANK POSITION SENSOR CHECKS
Whether a crankshaft position sensor is the magnetic type or a hall effect switch, most problems can be traced to faults in the wiring harness. A disruption of the sensor supply voltage, ground or return circuits can cause a loss of the all-important timing signal resulting in an engine that cranks but won't start.
Also, on some vehicles, damage to the notched sensor ring on the crankshaft, harmonic balancer or flywheel can cause an erratic crankshaft sensor signal.
When troubleshooting a suspected crankshaft position sensor problem, you should follow the diagnostic flow charts in the vehicle manufacturer�s service literature to isolate the faulty component when a fault code is present, otherwise there is no way to know if a no-spark starting problem is a bad ignition module, coil, computer, wiring fault or ignition switch.
Magnetic sensors can be checked by unplugging the electrical connector and checking resistance between the appropriate terminals. On a GM 2.3L Quad 4, for example, the sensor should read between 500 and 900 ohms. Always refer to the vehicle manufacturers test specifications when testing these sensors. Obviously, if you see a zero resistance reading (shorted) or an infinite (open) reading, the sensor has failed and needs to be replaced. If viewed on an oscilloscope, a magnetic crank sensor will produce a waveform similar to that below:
A good magnetic crank position sensor should produce an alternating current when the engine is cranked, so a voltage output check while cranking is another test that can be performed. With the sensor connected, read the output voltage across the appropriate terminals while cranking the engine. If you see at least 20 mV on the AC scale, the sensor is good, meaning the fault is probably in the module, coil, wiring or computer.
Hall effect crankshaft position sensors typically have three terminals; one for current feed, one for ground and one for the output signal. The sensor must have voltage and ground to produce a signal, so check these terminals first with an analog voltmeter. Sensor output can be checked by disconnecting the coil and cranking the engine to see if the sensor produces a voltage signal. The voltmeter needle should jump each time a shutter blade passes through the Hall effect switch. If observed on an oscilloscope, you should see a square wave form (see above) that changes in frequency.
If your diagnosis reveals a faulty crank sensor, the only option is to replace it. With Hall effect sensors, the sensor must be properly aligned with the interrupter ring to generate a clean signal. Any rubbing or interference could cause idle problems as well as sensor damage. Magnetic crankshaft position sensors must be installed with the proper air gap, which is usually within .050 in. of the reluctor wheel on the crankshaft.
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Tema: Elektros skyrius (Skaityta 313292 kartus)
2011 Vasario 25, 12:14:46 