The camshaft synchroniser is a device very similar in appearance to a distributer, from an earlier vintage. It sends an electrical signal under engine rotation (specifically from the camshaft) which informs the Engine computer when #1 cylinder is at TDC on the firing stroke. This information is used by the EEC (computer) to synchronise fuel injection to engine firing sequence & thus obtain more efficient fuel economy. It is especially needed for Sequential fuel injection (SEFI) to function correctly. The synchroniser assembly has the actual CMP sensor bolted to the top of it, the sensor must be removed to allow installation & timing of the assembly.
The basics of setting the camshaft synchroniser are as follows:
1) Set the engine #1 cylinder to TDC on the firing stroke, after setting the transmission in Neutral.
2) Position the synchroniser alignment tool onto the head of the synchroniser body (the camshaft sensor needs to be removed). The worm gear will need to be rotated to allow the tool to be installed.
3) Engage the synchroniser body worm gear with the camshaft IN THE CORRECT orientation. This is most important otherwise the fuel injection timing could be compromised . (See Handbook for correct angle or see link below) NOTE: setting angle for 4L is different than 3L. If the angle of the synchroniser is not correct the check engine light (CEL) may become illuminated. The synchroniser will continue to rotate as you push it down into the engine block, it will then be at a different angle. The angle of engagment is what the diagram linked below is showing, i.e. the angle before the synchroniser is seated to the block.
4) Tighten the hold down clamp making sure the crank/camshaft does not move at any time. Recheck the alignment angle !
5) Remove alignment tool & refit camshaft sensor. Do not allow the engine to rotate until the alignment tool is removed!
You are done !
ATB Aeroman.
Link to CMP Installation. http://www.Ford-trucks.com/forums/469633-cam-position-sensor.html
IF it is the same as the 1997 3.0L, then remove the engine access cover inside the vehicle. It is atop a shaft called a synchronizer at the rear top of the engine. It is attached with two small bolts.
On the Ford 4.0 liter EFI , V6 engine ( Over Head Valve / pushrod design ) From what I have read , the camshaft position sensor is on top of the camshaft synchronizer , located on the top of the engine , near the centerline , near the rear of the engine . On my 1995 Ford EXPLORER apparently you can't see it until the upper intake manifold is removed
On a 1997 Ford Aerostar : From what I have read , the cam shaft position sensor ( which is on top of the cam shaft position synchronizer ) on the 4.0 liter EFI V6 engine is on the top of the engine , near the center line , at the rear of the engine near the firewall * apparently you can't see it without the upper intake manifold being removed
There are ( shock absorbers ) on a 1997 Ford Aerostar ( front and rear )
In a 1997 Ford Aerostar : Refrigerant 134a is used
If I'm not mistaken, I think the camshaft position sensor on these engines is built into the distributor. You'd have to replace the whole thing.
1997 van aerostar front heater blower guide
On a 1997 Ford Aerostar : The fuse box is under the instrument panel , on the drivers side
Will a 1997 Aerostar transmission fit in a 2000 ford ranger?
For a 1997 Ford Aerostar : ( 21.0 U.S. gallons / 79.5 litres )
read any ot the mercede ben forums or MBWorld.org forum
Ford stopped making the Aerostar in 1997