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Cam Position Sensor (CPS) Concerns

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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:31 PM
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Cam Position Sensor (CPS) Concerns

I purchased my truck last July and seller had to replace CPS sensor. Just this week my CPS sensor went again. The truck would not start and I figured it was the sensor due to all the snow and rain. Is this normal to have so many problems with this sensor?


My other concern is the removal of the cps. I tried using a 1/4 rachet with 3 inch extension. I broke the tool and was unable to remove the bolt. I had to have a mechanic remove it.....He said he has a "special" tool for it....Is this normal? My concern is if I'm driving out of town and this part goes bad? Dan
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:34 PM
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Depends what brand he installed. I now would only install OEM. I previously bought one from Autozone and it crapped out on me after a few months.
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:36 PM
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Other sites I have been on guys all say the CPS sensor is a common thing to fail. Many of them carry a spare. I've had to replace mine once in 3 years. (I had it done, it was raining) I was thinking about getting myself a spare, but if you need a special tool... Now I want to know, but it's cold and snowy out to be crawling under the truck.
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:41 PM
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I have had 2 go out in 12 years, both OEM. I carry 2 spares, one for me and one for guy on the side of the road that needs one. No special tool, 10mm bolt if I remember correctly and it takes about 5 minutes to change them.
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:47 PM
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I was told it was a CPS. However, my concern is removing this part if I get stuck on the road. I thought it would be easy removal, but it doesn't appear to be so?
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:50 PM
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When I tried to remove the CPS the 10mm socket cracked on me. This didn't appear simple to me...any reason why it wasn't? Did I do domething wrong?
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:54 PM
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Very easy to change, takes a few minutes.
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:56 PM
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You need to remove it from UNDER the truck....on your back. It's pretty simple to do. 10mm socket is correct. When you install it, put a coat of oil on the o-ring.
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 08:58 PM
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Does not sound like you did anything wrong, you just had a tool failure. All you need is 10mm socket and maybe a screwdriver to pry it up. If someone told you that you needed a special tool they are blowing smoke
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 09:03 PM
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 09:16 PM
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Good video. I have had issues with my wipers and the truck running like crap. Now I HAVE to get under there and see what one I have. If I understand correctly... the factory gray one is what you should have.
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 09:16 PM
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Very common failure point on these trucks. I carry 2 sensors with me, a spare for me and a spare for someone else as was previously mentioned.
I also carry a shorty 10mm socket and 1/4" drive ratchet for removal and installation and it works perfectly, no extension. An extension will cause you to have to work around the belt too much IIRC.
Do you have a dual alternator truck? Not sure if that matters, but I did have a very hard time removing my first CPS. Make sure the harness is unplugged first! (Obviously). And OEM or bust for me as well. Too many horror stories about premature failure and RF interference to go aftermarket.
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 09:27 PM
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Anybody ever run the OEM International one? These are International engines. What's the diff?
 
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Old Jan 9, 2014 | 09:58 PM
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Different programming on powertrain control module, shorter fuel housing, T444 comes with coolent filter, different water pump, different heater, and different cooling system. Some use the IH cps but others say they have issues because they read differently than the PSD ones. I do not know as I have never used them. I do use IH up pipes though
 
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Old Jan 10, 2014 | 01:12 AM
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I have been running black International CPS for quite a few years no problems, it did change idle a bit. And have same spare in the truck.
 
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