98 ford escort zx2 cam shaft position sensor

[danadane41]

Having major issue keeping the car running if I am not giving the vehicle gas. I have already replaced the cam shaft position sensor and the check engine light still remains showing code P0340 cam shaft position sensor. I have had to adjust the idle very high to keep the car running as to when I come to a stop I have to put the car in neutral to keep in running. Anyone have any ideas how to keep the car running and fix the problem...

[tagman11]

I'm thinkin a number of things, being as how the computer doesn't always catch everything. First, though, I'd make sure you have the sensor installed correctly, and none of the fuses are blown or anything.
Beyond that, I'd replace the plugs and wires, and the coil if needed. These things really helped my Z out... Check out the fuel pump too.... the one in my dad's escort went out around 50000 miles.

[Markb873]

I had the same problem with my ZX2. I was only getting that code but it turned out to be that the VCT was not advancing/retarding and the computer thought that the camshaft sensor was the problem. Here was how I verified this. Unplug the camshaft sensor and the car should run about normal. Unplug the VCT. Run the engine at about 3000 and plug back in the camshaft sensor. then plug back in the VCT. When the VCT is plugged back in the engine should significantly change it's tone. (As it will change position about 30 degrees) The other simptom was the RPM greatly varied from 500 to 1500 at idle. But the engine was normal above about 3000 when driving. If it is the VCT the part is $350 from Ford but is fairly simple to install although alot of parts have to be removed. You also need an engine kit. The only place that I could find one was through Parts Plus and they had to order it out of a catalog. it was $20. Its actually a common engine problem.