Engine Crankshaft Position Sensor for 1998-2002 Ford F-450 Super Duty
Understanding the difference between the crank and cam sensors is key to fixing your 7.3L Power Stroke.
- Do not confuse the Crankshaft Sensor (CKP) with the more commonly failing Camshaft Sensor (CMP) on the 7.3L Power Stroke; a dead tachometer during cranking points to the CMP.
- A major recall (07S57) was issued for the Camshaft Position Sensor, which caused stalling. Check if your truck has the updated gray sensor.
- Symptoms of a bad CKP include no-start, stalling, rough idle, and a Check Engine Light with codes like P0335.
- For critical sensors on these trucks, choosing a quality aftermarket brand like Delphi, Denso, or Standard Ignition is a safer bet than economy brands.
Crankshaft vs. Camshaft Sensor: A Common Point of Confusion
For the 1998-2002 Ford F-450 Super Duty, especially those with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine, it's vital to distinguish between the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) and the Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP). While both are critical, the CMP sensor on the 7.3L is famously known for failures that led to a massive recall. Many owners confuse the two. The CMP sensor reads the camshaft's position to time the fuel injectors and is the primary sensor for engine speed on the 7.3L; a failure here will cause the tachometer to read zero during cranking. The CKP sensor provides the PCM with crankshaft position for finer tuning and works in tandem with the CMP. This article focuses on the CKP, but understanding the notorious CMP is crucial for any 7.3L owner.
Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
A bad CKP sensor can cause a range of problems, from minor annoyances to leaving you stranded. Because the PCM relies on this signal for engine timing, a faulty sensor can disrupt performance significantly.
- Check Engine Light: A failing sensor will often trigger the Check Engine Light. Common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) include P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor "A" Circuit Malfunction) and related codes.
- Engine Stalling: The engine may stall intermittently, sometimes without warning. This can be dangerous, especially in traffic.
- No-Start or Hard Starting: If the PCM doesn't receive a signal from the crank sensor, it may not be able to initiate fuel injection or spark, leading to a crank-no-start condition.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: An erratic signal can cause the engine to idle roughly, vibrate, or misfire as the computer struggles to maintain correct timing.
- Poor Acceleration and Reduced Fuel Economy: Incorrect timing from a bad sensor signal can lead to inefficient combustion, resulting in sluggish acceleration and worse gas mileage.
Known Issue: The 7.3L Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) Recall
🎬 Watch this video to learn more about common 7.3L CPS issues.A widespread issue on 7.3L Power Stroke engines is the failure of the Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP), not the crankshaft sensor. Ford issued Safety Recall 07S57 for this part because it could fail suddenly, causing the engine to stall without warning. The original black-colored sensor (part number starting with F7TZ-12K073-A) was replaced with an improved gray version (F7TZ-12K073-B). Before replacing your crankshaft sensor, first identify your camshaft sensor. If it's black, it should be replaced immediately 🎬 See why the original black sensor is prone to failure., and you should verify if the recall was performed on your truck. Many owners carry a spare CMP sensor in their glove box.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Crankshaft Sensor
When replacing a critical sensor, quality matters. While OEM is always an option, reputable aftermarket brands provide a good balance of performance and value. For a workhorse like the F-450, avoiding the cheapest parts is a wise investment.
| Brand Tier | Brands | Our Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Aftermarket | Delphi, Denso, NGK, Standard Ignition (SMP) | $35 - $48.36 | These brands are often original equipment (OE) suppliers and have a strong reputation for reliability and longevity. They are highly recommended for critical electronic components. |
| Quality Standard Aftermarket | Dorman, Walker Products, Spectra | $28 - $40 | These brands offer a good balance of price and quality. Dorman is a popular choice, but for critical sensors on Power Stroke engines, owner feedback can be mixed. |
| Economy Aftermarket | Prenco, True Tech | $22.51 - $30 | These are budget-friendly options. While tempting, the risk of premature failure is higher, which could lead to repeated repairs and potential breakdowns. |
Pro Tip: OEM vs. Aftermarket for Ford Sensors
For Ford Power Stroke engines, many experienced mechanics and owners strongly recommend using either genuine Motorcraft parts or sensors from top-tier aftermarket brands that are known OE suppliers. The complex electronics in these trucks can be sensitive to the signal quality from sensors. While saving a few dollars on an economy part is tempting, the potential for stalling, no-starts, or repeat failures often makes a quality-branded part the better value in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Where is the crankshaft position sensor located on a 1998-2002 F-450?
On the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine, the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) is located on the front of the engine, typically mounted to the engine block and reading the crankshaft pulley or a tone ring behind it. It is separate from the more commonly serviced camshaft position sensor (CMP), which is located at about the 10 or 11 o'clock position above the crankshaft pulley.
Is it the crank or cam sensor that causes the tachometer to fail on a 7.3L?
On the 7.3L Power Stroke, the camshaft position sensor (CMP) signal is what drives the tachometer. If your engine is cranking but the tachometer needle isn't moving at all, it is a classic sign of a failed CMP sensor, not the CKP sensor.
🎬 Learn how to diagnose a failing sensor on your Ford 7.3L.Can I replace the crankshaft position sensor myself?
Yes, for a person with basic mechanical skills, replacing the CKP sensor is a feasible DIY job. It typically involves disconnecting the battery, safely accessing the sensor (which may require removing other components like the serpentine belt), unplugging the electrical connector, removing one or two mounting bolts, and then installing the new sensor. Estimated time is around one hour.
Should I replace the cam and crank sensors at the same time?
It is not strictly necessary, but it can be a good preventative maintenance practice, especially on an older, high-mileage truck. The sensors are of a similar age and live in the same harsh environment. Since a failure of either can leave you stranded, replacing both can provide peace of mind. Given the low cost of the parts, it's a reasonable approach if you are already working in that area of the engine.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F7TZ12K073B F7TZ12K073A F4TZ12K073C DU87
The Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) and Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) for the 7.3L Power Stroke are Hall-effect sensors. The CKP reads the crankshaft's position for fine-tuning, while the CMP reads the camshaft to determine engine speed for the PCM and tachometer.
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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-450 Super Duty:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Crankshaft vs. Camshaft Sensor: A Common Point of Confusion
- Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor
- Known Issue: The 7.3L Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) Recall
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Crankshaft Sensor
- Pro Tip: OEM vs. Aftermarket for Ford Sensors
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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