Ford Excursion 2000-2005 Crankshaft Position Sensor: A Complete Guide
Solving stalling, no-start, and rough running issues on your 5.4L, 6.8L, or 7.3L Power Stroke Excursion.
- For a 7.3L Power Stroke diesel, only use a genuine Motorcraft crankshaft position sensor for reliability.
- Do not confuse the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) with the recalled Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP), especially on 7.3L models.
- A failing crankshaft sensor can leave you stranded without warning; replacing it at the first sign of trouble is recommended.
- On 6.0L diesel models, check for related wiring harness recalls (05S34) that can cause identical stalling symptoms.
Is It a Crankshaft or Camshaft Sensor?
Before you buy a part, it's critical to know the difference between the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) and the Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP). Many owners use the term 'CPS' for both, causing confusion. On the 2000-2003 Ford Excursion with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel, the Camshaft Position Sensor is a famous failure point that was subject to a major recall. This article is about the Crankshaft Position Sensor, which is a different part with similar symptoms.
Symptoms of a Failing Crankshaft Sensor
A bad crankshaft sensor won't always trigger a Check Engine Light at first, but it will cause noticeable problems. If you experience these issues, your CKP sensor is a likely suspect.
- Sudden Stalling: The engine shuts off while driving, often when it's hot or when you let off the accelerator to make a turn. It may restart after cooling down for a few minutes.
- No-Start or Hard Starting: The engine will crank over and over but fails to start.
- Rough Idle and Misfires: The engine runs poorly, shakes, or feels like it's stumbling at idle.
- Check Engine Light: Eventually, a failing sensor will likely trigger the Check Engine Light with codes such as P0335 (Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Malfunction) or P0336 (Crankshaft Position Sensor A Circuit Range/Performance).
Known Issues on 6.0L Power Stroke (2003.5-2005)
For 2004-2005 Excursions with the 6.0L diesel, stalling issues may not be the sensor itself. Ford issued a recall (05S34) for wiring harnesses connected to the Fuel Injector Control Module (FICM) and Injector Control Pressure (ICP) sensor that could rub through and cause a stall. If you have a 6.0L, it's worth checking if this recall service was performed.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
Not all aftermarket sensors are created equal, especially for the Ford Excursion. The engine in your truck makes a big difference in what part you should choose.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Tier 1 - OEM (Motorcraft): For the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine, the strong recommendation from owners and mechanics is to only use a genuine Motorcraft sensor. Aftermarket sensors for the 7.3L have a widespread reputation for poor reliability and early failure. For the 5.4L and 6.8L gas engines, Motorcraft is the benchmark for quality and fit.
- Tier 2 - Premium Aftermarket (Delphi, Denso, Hitachi, NGK/NTK): These brands are major OEM suppliers and have a good reputation for quality. For the 5.4L and 6.8L gas engines, a sensor from one of these brands is a reliable alternative to Motorcraft.
- Tier 3 - Budget Brands (Dorman, Standard Ignition, Store Brands): While attractively priced, these parts can be a gamble. Some may work fine, while others may fail prematurely. They are best considered for a temporary fix or if budget is the primary concern, but for a critical sensor that can leave you stranded, investing in a higher-tier part is wise.
Pro Tip for 7.3L Owners: The original Camshaft Position Sensor (CMP) was so prone to failure that many owners carry a spare sensor and a 10mm wrench in their glove box. While this article is about the crankshaft sensor, the principle is the same: for a part that can disable the truck, having a known-good spare on hand is cheap insurance.
Cost of a New Crankshaft Position Sensor
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New OEM (Motorcraft) | $45 - $90 |
| New Aftermarket | $21 - $79 |
| Shop Labor | $80 - $160 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Was there a recall for the crankshaft position sensor?
No, there were no specific recalls for the crankshaft position sensor on the 2000-2005 Excursion. However, there was a major safety recall (07S57) for the camshaft position sensor on 2000-2003 models with the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine due to a stalling risk. Always be sure which sensor you are diagnosing and replacing.
Why does my Excursion only stall when it gets hot?
This is a classic symptom of a failing electronic component like a CKP sensor. As the sensor heats up from engine operation, internal circuits can expand and separate, causing the signal to cut out. When the engine cools, the connection is restored, and the vehicle may start again.
Is this a difficult part to replace myself?
For most DIY mechanics, this is a feasible job. On the 7.3L diesel, the sensor is on the front of the engine near the harmonic balancer and held by a single 10mm bolt. On the 6.8L V10, it is also on the front but may require moving the A/C compressor for access, making it more difficult. The 5.4L V8 location is similar. The job typically takes between 30 and 90 minutes.
What's the difference between a P0335 and P0336 code?
P0335 indicates a complete loss of signal or a major electrical fault in the sensor's circuit. P0336 means the signal is erratic, intermittent, or out of its expected performance range, which often happens with a sensor that is starting to fail.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: F7TZ-12K073-B F7TZ-12K073-A DU-87 1W7Z6C315AA F1AZ6C315A 3C3Z-12K073-AA 8C3Z-12K073-A
The crankshaft position sensor for the Ford Excursion is typically a Hall-effect or magnetic reluctance sensor that generates a signal based on the passing of teeth on a reluctor wheel mounted to the crankshaft. It uses a 2 or 3-pin connector depending on the engine type.
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.
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