Ford F-350 (1992-1998) Engine Crankshaft Position Sensor Guide
Understand the common failure symptoms and why choosing the right brand is critical for your 7.3L PowerStroke.
- A failing sensor is the most common cause of stalling and no-start issues on the 7.3L PowerStroke.
- For reliability, use only a genuine OEM Motorcraft sensor; aftermarket versions for this part have a poor reputation.
- The replacement is extremely easy, requiring only a 10mm wrench and about 15 minutes.
- It is highly recommended to keep a spare Motorcraft sensor in your glove box to avoid being stranded.
Is Your F-350 Stalling or Refusing to Start? It Could Be the Crank Sensor
For owners of the 1992-1998 Ford F-350, particularly the models with the 7.3L PowerStroke diesel (1994.5-1998), the crankshaft position sensor is a well-known weak point. A failing sensor can leave you stranded without warning. The most common sign of failure is the engine suddenly stalling and refusing to restart, often after it has warmed up. Another classic symptom is an erratic tachometer; you might see it drop to zero while driving or not move at all when you're cranking the engine. These issues occur because the engine's computer loses the essential signal it needs to time fuel delivery.
🎬 Watch: Diagnosing a sudden no-start condition on your 7.3 PowerstrokeCrank Sensor vs. Cam Sensor: A Common Mix-Up
On the 7.3L PowerStroke engine, the part that most commonly fails and causes these symptoms is technically the Camshaft Position Sensor (CPS), though it's often mistakenly called the crank sensor. This sensor is located at the front of the engine, at about the 10 or 11 o'clock position to the main crankshaft pulley. Because it reads the engine's position and is a notorious failure point, it's the part this guide focuses on. For gas engine models or the older 7.3L IDI diesel, the sensor location and failure patterns may differ.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: Quality Matters
When it comes to this specific part on a 7.3L PowerStroke, not all brands are created equal. While many aftermarket options are available, the overwhelming consensus among experienced owners is to use a genuine Motorcraft (Ford OEM) sensor. Aftermarket sensors have a widespread reputation for being unreliable, failing quickly, or not working correctly right out of the box. This can lead to spending more time and money replacing the part again.
Brand Tiers for Your F-350
- Tier 1 (Highly Recommended): Motorcraft. The OEM sensor is the most trusted option for reliability and performance. Ford released several versions over the years. The original black sensor was recalled and replaced with a gray one, which some users found caused a rough idle. The updated Motorcraft part (often dark gray or black with a purple o-ring, part number F4TZ-12K073-C or F7TZ-12K073-B) is the go-to choice for most owners. 🎬 See this guide for specific part numbers and sensor differences
- Tier 2 (Use with Caution): Standard Ignition, Walker Products, Spectra, Dorman, Motorad. While these brands offer a more budget-friendly option, their reliability for this specific, critical sensor is questionable according to owner forums. If you choose an aftermarket brand, many experienced mechanics and owners strongly recommend keeping a known-good Motorcraft sensor in your glove box as a spare.
Pro Tip: Keep a Spare in the Glove Box
The CPS is famous for failing without notice. Since the replacement is very easy (a single 10mm bolt and a connector), many 7.3L owners carry a spare sensor and a 10mm wrench in their truck at all times. This simple precaution can prevent you from being stranded.
Cost to Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor
| Part Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $20 - $54 |
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $30 - $50 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Was there a recall on the F-350 crankshaft position sensor?
Yes, Ford issued a recall (07M08) for the Camshaft Position Sensor on the 7.3L PowerStroke engine, which is the part that commonly fails and causes stalling/no-start issues. The original black sensor was replaced with an updated gray sensor. However, many owners have since opted for other Motorcraft revisions that offer better performance.
Can I replace the sensor myself?
Absolutely. For the 7.3L PowerStroke, this is one of the easiest jobs you can do. The sensor is held by a single 10mm bolt and is accessible from underneath the front of the truck. The entire process can take as little as 10-15 minutes.
🎬 Watch: A quick walkthrough on how to change the CPSWhere is the crankshaft position sensor located?
On the 7.3L PowerStroke engine, the sensor is on the front of the engine block, near the main crankshaft pulley, at approximately the 10 or 11 o'clock position. You can access it by crawling under the front bumper.
What's the difference between the black, gray, and purple sensors?
These colors refer to different revisions of the Motorcraft sensor. The original black sensor was known for good performance but was recalled for sudden failures. The replacement gray sensor fixed the stalling issue but often caused a rough idle or other minor issues. The later dark gray/purple o-ring sensor (F4TZ-12K073-C) is often preferred by owners of newer trucks in this range for providing a smoother idle and better performance.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F7TZ-12K073-B F4TZ-12K073-C F7TZ-12K073-A 1876735C91 1825899C93
Hall Effect Sensor, 10mm bolt mount, 3-pin connector. Located on the front of the engine block on 7.3L PowerStroke models.
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 Your F-350 Stalling or Refusing to Start? It Could Be the Crank Sensor
- Crank Sensor vs. Cam Sensor: A Common Mix-Up
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Sensor: Quality Matters
- Brand Tiers for Your F-350
- Pro Tip: Keep a Spare in the Glove Box
- Cost to Replace the Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off