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TT 78
TT 78
TIP IGNITION 78
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Sensitive Sensors Can Send the Wrong Signals
Some systems use a speed density means of com- The TPS sensor is a potentiometer which provides
puting the air flow rate. On those systems, the a variable voltage signal to the ECM in relation to
manifold pressure and manifold temperature are the throttle position or angle. At closed throttle, the
used to calculate the airflow rate. The MAT sensor voltage signal will usually be below 1 volt; at wide
may also be referred to as an intake Air Temp open throttle, the voltage will be above 4 volts. The
Sensor (ATS). The sensor is a temperature sensitive voltage signal is used by the ECM to accurately
resistor which varies the voltage signal to the ECM control the fuel mixture, spark timing, torque con-
in relation to a given manifold air temperature. Air verter clutch, emission control components and
density varies with temperature. Warmer air con- the air conditioning (AC) clutch control circuit.
AUTO PARTS
The sensor incorporates moving parts which are
susceptible to wear from friction, resulting in inac- SUMMARY
curate sensor signals. Cracked or worn spots on the
resistance substrate can result in inaccurate signals, Diagnosing a deficiency in a computerized system
too. This can be monitored with a volt meter. While can be a nightmare. A technician may be chasing
performing a voltage sweep test, there should be a a problem which occurred for one millisecond,
steady increase in the signal strength from closed yesterday. Before you dive too deep into the diag-
throttle to wide open throttle. Any sudden change nostics, go for the basics first. Always check the
in signal strength is a reflection of an open, cracked power and ground circuits at the battery and com-
or burned resistance substrate. puter. Check the charging system output, as a high
or low voltage condition can affect the sensor’s
A sensor out of adjustment may affect the idle speed accuracy. Check the sensor’s activity via a scan
or performance at part or full throttle; a sensor with tool, volt/ohm meter, frequency meter or lab scope.
an open circuit would result in no fuel enrichment We don’t sell test equipment, so trust me when we
on acceleration. A sensor that is defective or out of recommend a lab scope. The lab scope can be a
adjustment will affect the fuel economy, put the valuable tool in diagnosing sensor activity. Once
idle speed in a hunting mode, illuminate the Check you are familiar with the scope and sensor signals,
Engine light, cause a timing variation and other you will be fixing vehicles you wouldn’t otherwise.
performance deficiencies. The sensors should be tested every 25,000 miles to
insure optimum performance, fuel economy and
acceptable emission output.
LARRY HAMMER
TECHNICAL SERVICES
®
MIGHTY DISTRIBUTING SYSTEM OF AMERICA, INC.