Ford F-350 Camshaft Position Sensor Guide for 1990-1998 Models
Understanding the common camshaft position sensor issues in your Ford F-350, especially for the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel.
- The Camshaft Position Sensor is a critical failure point on 1994-1998 F-350s with the 7.3L Power Stroke engine.
- A bad sensor can cause sudden, dangerous engine stalling. A recall was issued for this exact problem.
- Symptoms often include a no-start condition where the tachometer needle does not move during cranking.
- It's highly recommended for 7.3L owners to carry a spare sensor and a 10mm wrench in the truck for emergencies.
Is This a 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel or a Gas Engine?
This guide focuses heavily on the 1994.5-1998 Ford F-350 with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine. The Camshaft Position Sensor (CPS) is a notoriously common failure point on these specific engines. For owners of the 7.5L (460) or 5.8L (351W) gas engines from 1990-1997, this part is not a frequent problem. On those engines, the sensor is often called a pickup coil and is located inside the distributor, making replacement a more involved job.
Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor (7.3L Power Stroke)
A bad CPS on a 7.3L Power Stroke can leave you stranded without warning. The most common and dangerous symptom is the engine suddenly stalling, sometimes while driving at highway speeds. The engine may or may not restart immediately. Other signs include:
🎬 Learn more about the symptoms of a bad camshaft sensor.- Engine Stalling: The engine quits unexpectedly, as if the key were turned off. This can happen at any speed or at idle.
- No Start or Hard Start: The engine will crank but won't fire up.
- Erratic Tachometer: When cranking a no-start engine, the tachometer needle won't move. This is a classic sign of a failed CPS on pre-2002 models.
- Rough Idle: The engine may run unevenly or feel like it has a miss.
- Check Engine Light: A failing sensor can trigger the check engine light with codes like P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction) or P0344 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Intermittent).
Recall and Known Issues for 7.3L Power Stroke
Ford issued a major safety recall (NHTSA Campaign ID: 07V557000, Ford Recall 07S57) for the Camshaft Position Sensor on 1997-2003 vehicles with the 7.3L diesel engine. The original black-colored sensor (part number F7TZ-12K073-A) was prone to failure, which could cause the engine to stall unexpectedly. The recall involved replacing the faulty black sensor with an updated gray sensor (part number F7TZ-12K073-B). While the gray sensor was the official fix, some owners reported 🎬 Watch a breakdown of common 7.3L CPS sensor issues. that the original black sensor provided a smoother run when it was working correctly.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Camshaft Position Sensor
When your CPS fails, you have options ranging from budget-friendly to premium aftermarket brands. For a part this critical, quality matters.
Tier 1: Premium Brands (Delphi, NGK, Standard Ignition)
These brands are known for producing parts that meet or exceed original equipment (OE) specifications. They often use high-quality materials and rigorous testing. For a critical part like the CPS, which can leave you stranded, spending a bit more on a premium brand is a wise investment for reliability.
Tier 2: Reputable Aftermarket (Dorman, Spectra, Walker Products)
Dorman is well-known for providing direct-fit replacements for a huge range of parts, and their sensors are a common choice. Walker and Spectra also have a long history in engine management components. While generally reliable, quality can sometimes be inconsistent compared to premium brands. However, many owners use these parts without issue.
Tier 3: Economy Brands (Global Parts, Prenco, True Tech)
These brands compete on price. While they offer a cost-effective solution, their long-term durability and performance may not match that of higher-tiered brands. For a part as critical as the 7.3L CPS, an economy part might be best used as a temporary fix or a spare to keep in the glove box.
Pro Tip for 7.3L Owners
Many experienced 7.3L Power Stroke owners carry a spare Camshaft Position Sensor and a 10mm wrench in their glove box. The sensor is located on the front of the engine at the 10 or 11 o'clock position to the main crank pulley and is held in by a single 10mm bolt. Replacement is a simple 10-minute job that can be done on the side of the road, saving you a tow bill.
🎬 See how to replace your CPS sensor in five minutes.| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $40 - $80 |
| New Aftermarket | $27.92 - $85.77 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Camshaft Position Sensor the same as the Crankshaft Position Sensor?
No, they are different sensors. The Camshaft Position Sensor (CPS/CMP) tracks the camshaft's rotation. The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) tracks the crankshaft's rotation. On the 1990-1998 F-350 gas engines, the function of a crank sensor is performed by a pickup coil inside the distributor, while the 7.3L diesel relies heavily on its external camshaft sensor.
Where is the Camshaft Position Sensor located on my 1997 F-350?
On a 7.3L Power Stroke diesel, it is on the front of the engine block, just above the crankshaft pulley, at about the 10 or 11 o'clock position. It is held in by a single 10mm bolt. On a 7.5L (460) or 5.8L (351W) gas engine, the equivalent part (pickup coil) is located inside the distributor.
Do I need to do anything special after installing a new sensor?
No special programming is needed. It's a plug-and-play part. It's a good idea to disconnect the battery for about 30 minutes before you start to allow the computer's memory to reset, though it is not always required. After installation, start the engine and check for proper operation.
What's the difference between the black, gray, and blue sensors for the 7.3L?
The original sensor from Ford was black. Due to a recall for stalling issues, Ford replaced it with a gray sensor. Some owners found the gray sensor caused a rougher idle or other minor issues. Aftermarket companies and International (the engine manufacturer) have offered sensors in different colors, including dark gray or blue, with some users having preferences based on their experience. The key is to buy a quality part from a reputable brand, regardless of color.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F7TZ-12K073-B F7TZ-12K073-A F6TZ-12K073-A F4TZ-12K073-C 4C4Z-12K073-AB 1821720C98 1876736C91
Hall Effect sensor with a 2-pin rectangular connector. Located on the front of the engine block on 7.3L Power Stroke models, held by a single 10mm bolt.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford F-350:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is This a 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel or a Gas Engine?
- Symptoms of a Failing Camshaft Position Sensor (7.3L Power Stroke)
- Recall and Known Issues for 7.3L Power Stroke
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Camshaft Position Sensor
- Pro Tip for 7.3L Owners
- Frequently Asked Questions
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