Grand Cherokee 4WD V8-5.7L (2008)
Crankshaft Position Sensor: Description and Operation
Operation
OPERATION
Engine speed and crankshaft position are provided through the CKP (Crankshaft Position) sensor. The sensor generates pulses that are the input sent to
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The PCM interprets the sensor input to determine the crankshaft position. The PCM then uses this position,
along with other inputs, to determine injector sequence and ignition timing.
The sensor (3) is a hall effect device combined with an internal magnet. It is also sensitive to steel within a certain distance from it.
A tonewheel (targetwheel) is bolted to the engine crankshaft (1). This tonewheel has sets of notches (2) at its outer edge.
The notches (3) cause a pulse to be generated when they pass under the sensor. The pulses are the input to the PCM.