Dakota R/T 2WD V8-5.9L VIN Z LDC (1999)
Throttle Position Sensor: Description and Operation
THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR (TPS)-PCM INPUT
The throttle position sensor (TPS) is mounted on the throttle body. The TPS is a variable resistor that provides the powertrain control module
(PCM) with an input signal (voltage) that represents throttle blade position. The sensor is connected to the throttle blade shaft. As the position of
the throttle blade changes, the resistance of the TPS changes.
The PCM supplies approximately 5 volts to the TPS. The TPS output voltage (input signal to the PCM) represents the throttle blade position. The
PCM receives an input signal voltage from the TPS. This will vary in an approximate range of from 0.26 volts at minimum throttle opening (idle),
to 4.49 volts at wide open throttle. Along with inputs from other sensors, the PCM uses the TPS input to determine current engine operating
conditions. In response to engine operating conditions, the PCM will adjust fuel injector pulse width and ignition timing.
