Sensor Testing

[Kace]

Hi all, I currently have an error that is appearing on my diagnostic that I am trying to sort out and the first port of call is to replace a sensor. As many of you will know some of these sensors have a crazy price new, so secondhand is the only viable option to replace. However there is obviously the risk that you’re buying a dud sensor.

Do any of you more technical guys know whether there is some easy way of testing some of these sensors, for example an air intake sensor or a vacuum sensor or a crank angel sensor etc. These things usually have something like a 3 pin or 4 pin connector and I’m sure that there’s normally some combination of 12v and maybe other voltages expected at each of these pins.

Anyone know of simple ways to try and ascertain whether the sensors are working or not, probably stuff like testing whether there is continuity (or not) across the pins etc. Obviously without knowing the expected behavior across these pins, it is going to be tough, but I’m curious to understand whether any of you have tried to work this out.

Thanks all.

[brccrx]

Just borrow the faulty one of someone, if that sort Your problem just buy it.

What sensor exactly U talking about?

[Kace]

True - probably the best approach, except that my car isn't running as a result of this (and for the first time ever) so the swap is a little more logistically challenging.

It's the Vacuum or MAP Sensor that is currently flagging as being an issue. It's the one at the back of the engine right in the middle and bolted to the bulkhead / firewall or whatever it's called.

Actually quite easy to remove - one bolt and a little hose.

[brccrx]

What year is Your FTO?

Seems that they switch from MD311994 to MD190995 in 1997, also depend on sub model code.

If thats the problem, by changing it the engine should run 100%

I think i have both sensors so next time im in Dublin i can bring it with me and we could try it if ya like, have no idea when though.

Also both MAP's were used in some other Mitsubishi models.

[Kace]

What year is Your FTO?

Seems that they switch from MD311994 to MD190995 in 1997, also depend on sub model code.

If thats the problem, by changing it the engine should run 100%

I think i have both sensors so next time im in Dublin i can bring it with me and we could try it if ya like, have no idea when though.

Also both MAP's were used in some other Mitsubishi models.

Thanks for that - I have a 1995, so the MD311994 is the sensor I'm looking at.

The more I think about it, the more I think that I just need to test my sensor in someone else's GPX to see if this makes a difference.

Any Northsiders (with a pre 1997) around over the next couple of evenings and open to a short visit for a sensor test ? This only takes a minute to take off and I have mine off already at the ready.

Cheers.

[Gerry]

Hi kris,
I think that there is a vaccum pipe
That attaches to this sensor. Just ensure
That there is no leaks or blockages
In it just in case this is ur problem

[Kace]

Thanks Gerry - yes there is a small rubber vacuum pipe that this connects to alright. I'll check it.

[brccrx]

Could U describe whats the problem please? Maybe thats something different not Your MAP sensor?

[Kace]

Sure - basically the car won't start at all. It turns over (albeit not too strongly) and then starts for a fraction of a second and then dies.

I disconnected the battery last week and it started and stayed going for a couple of minutes before cutting out. I have never had this problem before, spark plugs don't have many miles on them, the car was fully serviced a couple of months ago.

Every time I run a diagnostic (even after disconnecting the battery) the vacuum / MAP sensor error appears.

So my first port of call seems to be to check out this particular sensor, although any other thoughts welcome.

[brccrx]

Oh so she throwing up the MAP sensor code thats not bad