1998 DODGE RAM 1500 Camshaft position sensor

CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
3.7L V-6
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 3.7L
6-cylinder engine is bolted to the right-front side of
the right cylinder head.
4.7L V-8
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 4.7L
V-8 engine is bolted to the right-front side of the
right cylinder head.
5.7L V-8
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 5.7L
V-8 engine is located below the generator on the tim-
ing chain / case cover on the right/front side of
engine.
5.9L Diesel
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 5.9L
diesel engine is located below the fuel injection
pump. It is bolted to the back of the timing gear
cover.
OPERATION
3.7L V-6
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) sensor on the
3.7L V-6 engine contains a hall effect device referred
to as a sync signal generator. A rotating target wheel
(tonewheel) for the CMP is located at the front of the
camshaft for the right cylinder head (Fig. 6). This
sync signal generator detects notches located on a
tonewheel. As the tonewheel rotates, the notches
pass through the sync signal generator. The signal
from the CMP sensor is used in conjunction with the
Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) to differentiate
between fuel injection and spark events. It is also
used to synchronize the fuel injectors with their
respective cylinders.
When the leading edge of the tonewheel notch
enters the tip of the CMP, the interruption of mag-
netic field causes the voltage to switch high, result-
ing in a sync signal of approximately 5 volts.
When the trailing edge of the tonewheel notch
leaves then tip of the CMP, the change of the mag-
netic field causes the sync signal voltage to switch
low to 0 volts.
4.7L V-8
The CMP sensor on the 4.7L engine contains a hall
effect device called a sync signal generator to gener-
ate a fuel sync signal. This sync signal generator
detects notches located on a tonewheel. The tone-wheel is located at the front of the camshaft for the
right cylinder head (Fig. 7). As the tonewheel rotates,
the notches pass through the sync signal generator.
The pattern of the notches (viewed counter-clockwise
from front of engine) is: 1 notch, 2 notches, 3 notches,
3 notches, 2 notches 1 notch, 3 notches and 1 notch.
The signal from the CMP sensor is used in conjunc-
tion with the crankshaft position sensor to differenti-
ate between fuel injection and spark events. It is also
used to synchronize the fuel injectors with their
respective cylinders.
5.7L V-8
The CMP sensor is used in conjunction with the
crankshaft position sensor to differentiate between
fuel injection and spark events. It is also used to syn-
chronize the fuel injectors with their respective cylin-
ders. The sensor generates electrical pulses. These
pulses (signals) are sent to the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM). The PCM will then determine crank-
shaft position from both the camshaft position sensor
and crankshaft position sensor.
The tonewheel is located at the front of the cam-
shaft (Fig. 8). As the tonewheel rotates, notches (Fig.
8) pass through the sync signal generator.
When the cam gear is rotating, the sensor will
detect the notches. Input voltage from the sensor to
the PCM will then switch from a low (approximately
0.3 volts) to a high (approximately 5 volts). When the
sensor detects a notch has passed, the input voltage
switches back low to approximately 0.3 volts.
Fig. 6 CMP OPERATION- 3.7L V-6
1 - NOTCHES
2 - RIGHT CYLINDER HEAD
3 - CMP
4 - TONEWHEEL (TARGET WHEEL)
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 7

5.9L Diesel
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) contains a
hall effect device. A rotating target wheel (tonewheel)
for the CMP is located on the front timing gear. This
hall effect device detects notches located on the tone-
wheel. As the tonewheel rotates, the notches pass the
tip of the CMP.
When the leading edge of the tonewheel notch
passes the tip of the CMP, the following occurs: The
interruption of magnetic field causes the voltage to
switch high resulting in a signal of approximately 5
volts.
When the trailing edge of the tonewheel notch
passes the tip of the CMP, the following occurs: The
change of the magnetic field causes the signal voltage
to switch low to 0 volts.
The CMP (Fig. 9) provides a signal to the Engine
Control Module (ECM) at all times when the engine
is running. The ECM uses the CMP information pri-
marily on engine start-up. Once the engine is run-
ning, the ECM uses the CMP as a backup sensor for
engine speed. The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP)
is the primary engine speed indicator for the engine
after the engine is running.
Fig. 7 CMP AND TONEWHEEL OPERATION - 4.7L
V-8
1 - NOTCHES
2 - RIGHT CYLINDER HEAD
3 - CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
4 - TONEWHEEL
Fig. 8 CMP OPERATION - 5.7L ENGINE
1 - TIMING CHAIN COVER
2 - TONEWHEEL
3 - NOTCHES
Fig. 9 5.9L DIESEL CMP
1 - CMP
2 - FUEL INJECTION PUMP (BOTTOM)
3 - ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM)
4 - ECM ELEC. CONNECTOR
5 - CMP ELEC. CONNECTOR
6 - CMP MOUNTING BOLT
7 - BACK OF TIMING GEAR COVER
8I - 8 IGNITION CONTROLDR
CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

REMOVAL
3.7L V-6
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 3.7L
V-6 engine is bolted to the front/top of the right cyl-
inder head (Fig. 10).
(1) Disconnect electrical connector at CMP sensor.
(2) Remove sensor mounting bolt (Fig. 10).
(3) Carefully twist sensor from cylinder head.
(4) Check condition of sensor o-ring.
4.7L V-8
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 4.7L
V±8 engine is bolted to the front/top of the right cyl-
inder head (Fig. 11).
(1) Raise and support vehicle.
(2) Disconnect electrical connector at CMP sensor
(Fig. 11).
(3) Remove sensor mounting bolt (Fig. 11).
(4) Carefully twist sensor from cylinder head.
(5) Check condition of sensor o-ring.
5.7L V-8
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 5.7L
V-8 engine is located on right side of timing chain
cover below generator (Fig. 12).
(1) Disconnect electrical connector at CMP sensor.
(2) Remove sensor mounting bolt (Fig. 13).
(3) Carefully twist sensor from cylinder head.
(4) Check condition of sensor o-ring.
Fig. 10 CMP LOCATION - 3.7L
1 - RIGHT/FRONT OF RIGHT CYLINDER HEAD
2 - CMP MOUNTING BOLT
3 - CMP LOCATION
Fig. 11 CMP LOCATION - 4.7L
1 - RIGHT CYLINDER HEAD
2 - CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR
3 - MOUNTING BOLT
4 - ELEC. CONNECTOR
Fig. 12 CMP LOCATION ± 5.7L
1 - GENERATOR
2 - CMP LOCATION
3 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 9
CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

5.9L Diesel
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 5.9L
diesel engine is located below the fuel injection
pump. It is bolted to the back of the timing gear
cover (Fig. 14).
(1) Disconnect electrical connector at CMP sensor
(Fig. 14).
(2) Remove sensor mounting bolt.
(3) Carefully twist sensor from timing gear cover.
(4) Check condition of sensor o-ring.
INSTALLATION
3.7L V-6
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 3.7L
V-6 engine is bolted to the front/top of the right cyl-
inder head (Fig. 10).
(1) Clean out machined hole in cylinder head.
(2) Apply a small amount of engine oil to sensor
o-ring.
(3) Install sensor into cylinder head with a slight
rocking and twisting action.
CAUTION: Before tightening sensor mounting bolt,
be sure sensor is completely flush to cylinder head.
If sensor is not flush, damage to sensor mounting
tang may result.
(4) Install mounting bolt and tighten. Refer to
torque specifications.(5) Connect electrical connector to sensor.
4.7L V-8
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 4.7L
V-8 engine is bolted to the front/top of the right cyl-
inder head (Fig. 11).
(1) Clean out machined hole in cylinder head.
(2) Apply a small amount of engine oil to sensor
o-ring.
(3) Install sensor into cylinder head with a slight
rocking action. Do not twist sensor into position as
damage to o-ring may result.
CAUTION: Before tightening sensor mounting bolt,
be sure sensor is completely flush to cylinder head.
If sensor is not flush, damage to sensor mounting
tang may result.
(4) Install mounting bolt and tighten. Refer to
Torque Specifications.
(5) Connect electrical connector to sensor.
5.7L V-8
The Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) on the 5.7L
V-8 engine is bolted to the right / front side of the
timing chain cover (Fig. 12) or (Fig. 13).
(1) Clean out machined hole in cylinder head.
Fig. 13 CMP REMOVAL / INSTALLATION ± 5.7L V-8
1 - TIMING CHAIN COVER (RIGHT/FRONT)
2 - CMP SENSOR
3 - MOUNTING BOLT
Fig. 14 5.9L DIESEL CMP
1 - CMP
2 - FUEL INJECTION PUMP (BOTTOM)
3 - ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM)
4 - ECM ELEC. CONNECTOR
5 - CMP ELEC. CONNECTOR
6 - CMP MOUNTING BOLT
7 - BACK OF TIMING GEAR COVER
8I - 10 IGNITION CONTROLDR
CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

(2) Apply a small amount of engine oil to sensor
o-ring.
(3) Install sensor into cylinder head with a slight
rocking action. Do not twist sensor into position as
damage to o-ring may result.
CAUTION: Before tightening sensor mounting bolt,
be sure sensor is completely flush to timing chain
cover. If sensor is not flush, damage to sensor
mounting tang may result.
(4) Install mounting bolt and tighten. Refer to
Torque Specifications.
(5) Connect electrical connector to sensor.
5.9L Diesel
The CMP is located on the back of the timing gear
cover (Fig. 14).
(1) Clean out machined hole in back of timing gear
cover.
(2) Apply a small amount of engine oil to sensor
o-ring.
(3) Install sensor into timing gear cover with a
slight rocking action. Do not twist sensor into posi-
tion as damage to o-ring may result.
CAUTION: Before tightening sensor mounting bolt,
be sure sensor is completely flush to back of timing
chain cover. If sensor is not flush, damage to sen-
sor mounting tang may result.
(4) Install mounting bolt and tighten. Refer to
Torque Specifications.
(5) Connect electrical connector to sensor.
IGNITION COIL
DESCRIPTION
3.7L V-6
The 3.7L V-6 engine uses 6 dedicated, and individ-
ually fired coil for each spark plug (Fig. 15). Each
coil is mounted directly into the cylinder head and
onto the top of each spark plug (Fig. 16).
4.7L V-8
The 4.7L V±8 engine uses 8 dedicated, and individ-
ually fired coil (Fig. 15) for each spark plug. Each
coil is mounted directly to the top of each spark plug
(Fig. 17).
5.7L V-8
The 5.7L V±8 engine uses 8 dedicated, and individ-
ually fired coil (Fig. 18) for each pair of spark plugs.
Each coil is mounted directly to the top of each spark
plug (Fig. 19). Each coil is bolted to the valve cover.
Fig. 15 IGNITION COIL - 3.7L V-6/ 4.7L V-8
1 - O-RING
2 - IGNITION COIL
3 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
Fig. 16 IGNITION COIL LOCATION - 3.7L V-6
1 - IGNITION COIL
2 - COIL MOUNTING NUT
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 11
CAMSHAFT POSITION SENSOR (Continued)

Base ignition timing is not adjustable.By con-
trolling the coil ground circuit, the PCM is able to set
the base timing and adjust the ignition timing
advance. This is done to meet changing engine oper-
ating conditions.
The ignition coil is not oil filled. The windings are
embedded in an epoxy compound. This provides heat
and vibration resistance that allows the ignition coil
to be mounted on the engine.
Because of coil design, spark plug cables (second-
ary cables) are not used with the 4.7L V-8 engine.
5.7L V-8
The ignition system is controlled by the Powertrain
Control Module (PCM) on all engines.
A ªwasted sparkº system is used on the 5.7L
engine combining paired, or dual-firing coils, and 2
spark plugs per cylinder. The coils and spark plugs
are connected with paired, secondary high-voltage
cables.
Each cylinder is equipped with 1 dual-output coil.
Meaning one coil mounts directly over one of the
dual spark plugs for 1 high-voltage output. A second
high-voltage output is supplied directly from the
same coil (using a plug cable) to one of the dual
spark plugs on a corresponding (paired) cylinder on
the opposite cylinder bank.
Each coil fires 2 spark plugs simultaneously on
each of the cylinder banks (one cylinder on compres-
sion stroke and one cylinder on exhaust stroke).
EXAMPLE :When the #1 cylinder is on compression
stroke and ready for spark, the #1 coil will fire one of
the dual spark plugs on the #1 cylinder (directly
below the coil). The other dual spark plug on the #1
cylinder will be fired by the #6 coil. At the same
time, the #1 coil will fire a ªwasted sparkº to one of
the dual spark plugs at the #6 cylinder as coil #6 also
fires a ªwasted sparkº to one of the dual spark plugs
at the #6 cylinder.
The firing order is paired at cylinders 1/6, 2/3, 4/7,
5/8. Basic cylinder firing order is 1±8±4±3±6±5±7±2.
Battery voltage is supplied to all of the ignition
coils positive terminals from the ASD relay. If the
PCM does not see a signal from the crankshaft and
camshaft sensors (indicating the ignition key is ON
but the engine is not running), it will shut down the
ASD circuit.
Base ignition timing is not adjustable on the
5.7L V-8 engine.By controlling the coil ground cir-
cuits, the PCM is able to set the base timing and
adjust the ignition timing advance. This is done to
meet changing engine operating conditions.
The PCM adjusts ignition timing based on inputs it
receives from:
²The engine coolant temperature sensor
²The crankshaft position sensor (engine speed)²The camshaft position sensor (crankshaft posi-
tion)
²The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor
²The throttle position sensor
²Transmission gear selection
REMOVAL
3.7L V-6
An individual ignition coil is used for each spark
plug (Fig. 15). The coil fits into machined holes in the
cylinder head. A mounting stud/nut secures each coil
to the top of the intake manifold (Fig. 16). The bot-
tom of the coil is equipped with a rubber boot to seal
the spark plug to the coil. Inside each rubber boot is
a spring. The spring is used for a mechanical contact
between the coil and the top of the spark plug. These
rubber boots and springs are a permanent part of the
coil and are not serviced separately. An o-ring (Fig.
15) is used to seal the coil at the opening into the cyl-
inder head.
(1) Depending on which coil is being removed, the
throttle body air intake tube or intake box may need
to be removed to gain access to coil.
(2) Disconnect electrical connector from coil by
pushing downward on release lock on top of connec-
tor and pull connector from coil.
(3) Clean area at base of coil with compressed air
before removal.
(4) Remove coil mounting nut from mounting stud
(Fig. 16).
(5) Carefully pull up coil from cylinder head open-
ing with a slight twisting action.
(6) Remove coil from vehicle.
4.7L V-8
An individual ignition coil is used for each spark
plug (Fig. 15). The coil fits into machined holes in the
cylinder head. A mounting stud/nut secures each coil
to the top of the intake manifold (Fig. 17). The bot-
tom of the coil is equipped with a rubber boot to seal
the spark plug to the coil. Inside each rubber boot is
a spring. The spring is used for a mechanical contact
between the coil and the top of the spark plug. These
rubber boots and springs are a permanent part of the
coil and are not serviced separately. An o-ring (Fig.
15) is used to seal the coil at the opening into the cyl-
inder head.
(1) Depending on which coil is being removed, the
throttle body air intake tube or intake box may need
to be removed to gain access to coil.
(2) Disconnect electrical connector (Fig. 17) from
coil by pushing downward on release lock on top of
connector and pull connector from coil.
(3) Clean area at base of coil with compressed air
before removal.
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 13
IGNITION COIL (Continued)

(4) Install ignition coil(s). Refer to Ignition Coil
Removal/Installation.
5.7L V-8
(1) Special care should be taken when installing
spark plugs into the cylinder head spark plug wells.
Be sure the plugs do not drop into the plug wells as
electrodes can be damaged.
(2) Start the spark plug into cylinder head by
hand to avoid cross threading aluminum threads. To
aid in installation, attach a piece of rubber hose, or
an old spark plug boot to spark plug.
(3) The 5.7L V-8 is equipped with torque critical
design spark plugs. Do not exceed 15 ft. lbs. torque.
Tighten spark plugs. Refer to torque specifications.
(4) Before installing spark plug cables to either the
spark plugs or coils, apply dielectric grease to inside
of boots.
(5) To prevent ignition crossfire, spark plug cables
MUSTbe placed in cable tray (routing loom) into
their original position. Refer to Spark Plug Cable
Removal for a graphic.
(6) Install ignition coil(s) to necessary spark plugs.
Refer to Ignition Coil Installation.
(7) Install spark plug cables to remaining spark
plugs. Remember to apply dielectric grease to inside
of boots.
IGNITION COIL CAPACITOR
DESCRIPTION
One coil capacitor is used. It is located in the right-
rear section of the engine compartment.
OPERATION
The coil capacitor(s) help dampen the amount of
conducted electrical noise to the camshaft position
sensor, crankshaft position sensor, and throttle posi-
tion sensor. This noise is generated on the 12V sup-
ply wire to the ignition coils and fuel injectors.
REMOVAL
The coil capacitor is located in the right-rear sec-
tion of the engine compartment. It is attached with a
mounting stud and nut.
(1) Disconnect electrical connector at capacitor
(Fig. 31).
(2) Remove mounting nut and remove ground
strap.
(3) Remove capacitor.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position capacitor to mounting stud.
(2) Position ground strap to mounting stud.
(3) Tighten nut to 7 N´m (60 in. lbs.) torque.
(4) Connect electrical connector to coil capacitor.
SPARK PLUG CABLE
DESCRIPTION
Spark plug cables are sometimes referred to as sec-
ondary ignition wires, or secondary ignition cables.
Plug cables are used only on the 5.7L V-8 engine.
OPERATION
The spark plug cables transfer electrical current
from the ignition coil(s) and/or distributor, to individ-
ual spark plugs at each cylinder. The resistive spark
plug cables are of nonmetallic construction. The
cables provide suppression of radio frequency emis-
sions from the ignition system.
Plug cables are used only on the 5.7L V-8 engine.
Fig. 31 CAPACITOR LOCATION
1 - COIL CAPACITOR
2 - MOUNTING STUD
3 - GROUND STRAP
4 - MOUNTING NUT
5 - ELEC. CONNECT.
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 21
SPARK PLUG (Continued)

8W-02 COMPONENT INDEX
Component Page
A/C Compressor Clutch................. 8W-42
A/C Compressor Clutch Relay............ 8W-42
A/C Pressure Transducer................ 8W-42
A/C-Heater Control.................... 8W-42
Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor......... 8W-30
Adjustable Pedal Motor................. 8W-30
Adjustable Pedal Relay................. 8W-30
Adjustable Pedal Switch................ 8W-30
Airbag Control Module................. 8W-43
Airbag-Squibs........................ 8W-43
Airbag-Curtains....................... 8W-43
Airbag-Passenger On/Off Switch.......... 8W-43
Ambient Temperature Sensor............ 8W-49
Amplifier Audio....................... 8W-47
Ashtray Lamp........................ 8W-44
Auto Shut Down Relay................. 8W-30
Automatic Day/Night Mirror.......... 8W-49, 55
Auxiliary Battery..................... 8W-20
Backup Lamp Switch.................. 8W-51
Battery............................. 8W-20
Battery Temperature Sensor............. 8W-30
Blend Door Actuators.................. 8W-42
Blower Motor......................... 8W-42
Blower Motor Resistor Block............. 8W-42
Brake Fluid Level Switch............ 8W-34, 35
Brake Lamp Switch.................... 8W-33
Brake Transmission Shift Interlock
Solenoid........................... 8W-40
Camshaft Position Sensor............... 8W-30
Capacitor............................ 8W-30
Center High Mounted Stop Lamp-
Aftermarket........................ 8W-51
Center High Mounted Stop Lamp/Cargo
Lamp.......................... 8W-44, 51
Cigar Lighter Outlet................... 8W-41
Circuit Breaker....................... 8W-10
Clearance Lamps...................... 8W-50
Clockspring................. 8W-33, 41, 43, 47
Clutch Interlock Brake Switch........... 8W-21
Coil On Plugs........................ 8W-30
Compass/Mini-Trip Computer............ 8W-49
Condenser Fan....................... 8W-42
Condenser Fan Relay.................. 8W-42
Controller Antilock Brake............ 8W-34, 35
Crankshaft Position Sensor.............. 8W-30
Cylinder Lock Switch-Driver............. 8W-61
Data Link Connector................... 8W-18
Data Link Connector-Engine............. 8W-18
Dome Lamp....................... 8W-44, 49
Door Ajar Switches.................... 8W-40
Door Lock Motor/Ajar Switches........ 8W-40, 61
Door Lock Switch-Passenger............. 8W-61Component Page
Door Module................... 8W-60, 61, 62
EGR Solenoid........................ 8W-30
Electric Backlight..................... 8W-48
Electric Brake Provision................ 8W-54
Electronic Throttle Control Module........ 8W-30
Engine Control Module................. 8W-30
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor....... 8W-30
Engine Oil Pressure Switch.............. 8W-30
EVAP/Purge Solenoid.................. 8W-30
Evaporator Temperature Sensor.......... 8W-42
Fender Lamps........................ 8W-51
Fog Lamp Relay...................... 8W-50
Fog Lamps.......................... 8W-50
Front Control Module.................. 8W-10
Fuel Control Actuator.................. 8W-30
Fuel Heater.......................... 8W-30
Fuel Heater Relay..................... 8W-30
Fuel Injector Packs.................... 8W-30
Fuel Injectors........................ 8W-30
Fuel Pump Module.................... 8W-30
Fuel Pump Motor..................... 8W-30
Fuel Pump Relay...................... 8W-30
Fuses............................ 8W-10, 33
Fusible Link......................... 8W-10
Generator........................... 8W-20
Glove Box Lamp And Switch............. 8W-44
Grounds............................ 8W-15
Hands Free Module.................... 8W-55
Headlamp Switch.................. 8W-40, 50
Headlamps.......................... 8W-50
Heated Mirror Relay................... 8W-62
Heated Seat Cushions.................. 8W-63
Horn Relay.......................... 8W-41
Horn Switch......................... 8W-41
Horn-High Note....................... 8W-41
Horn-Low Note....................... 8W-41
Idle Air Control Motor.................. 8W-30
Ignition Switch....................... 8W-10
Inlet Air Temperature Sensor............ 8W-30
Input Speed Sensor.................... 8W-31
Instrument Cluster.................... 8W-40
Intake Air Heater Relays............... 8W-30
Intake Air Temperature Sensor........... 8W-30
Intake Air Temperature/Manifold Absolute
Pressure Sensor..................... 8W-30
Integrated Power Module............... 8W-10
Knock Sensosr........................ 8W-30
License Lamps....................... 8W-51
Lift Pump Motor...................... 8W-30
Line Pressure Sensor................ 8W-30, 31
Lumbar Motors....................... 8W-63
Lumbar Switch....................... 8W-63
DR8W-02 COMPONENT INDEX 8W - 02 - 1