Engine Controls and Fuel - 4.6L - Introduction: Other Cadillac STS I facelift

Temperature Versus Resistance

Altitude Versus Barometric Pressure

Crankshaft Position System Variation Learn

1. Install a scan tool.
2. Monitor the ECM for DTCs with a scan tool. If other DTCs are set, except DTC P0315, refer to «Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle»(ref-338149-S32129793932009081700000) for the applicable DTC that set.
3. With a scan tool, select the CKP system variation learn procedure within the Module Setup menu and perform the following: Observe the fuel cut-off for the applicable engine. Block the drive wheels. Set the parking brake. Place the vehicle's transmission in Park or Neutral. Turn the air conditioning (A/C) OFF. Cycle the ignition from OFF to ON. Apply and hold the brake pedal for the duration of the procedure. Start and idle the engine. Accelerate to wide open throttle (WOT). The engine should not accelerate beyond the calibrated fuel cut-off RPM value noted in step 3.1. Release the throttle immediately if the value is exceeded. IMPORTANT: While the learn procedure is in progress, release the throttle immediately when the engine starts to decelerate. The engine control is returned to the operator and the engine responds to throttle position after the learn procedure is complete. Release the throttle when fuel cut-off occurs.
4. The scan tool displays Learn Status: Learned this Ignition. If the scan tool indicates that DTC P0315 ran and passed, the CKP variation learn procedure is complete. If the scan tool indicates DTC P0315 failed or did not run, or if any other DTCs set, refer to «Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle»(ref-338149-S32129793932009081700000) for the applicable DTC that set.
5. Turn OFF the ignition for 30 seconds after the learn procedure is completed successfully.

Throttle Learn

With Scan Tool - Reset

1. Ignition ON, engine OFF. With a scan tool, perform the Idle Learn Reset in Module Setup.
2. Start the engine, monitor the TB Idle Airflow Compensation parameter. The TB Idle Airflow Compensation parameter value should equal 0 percent and the engine should be idling at a normal idle speed. If the engine is not idling normally, proceed with the Learn portion of the diagnostic.
3. Clear the DTCs and return to the diagnostic that referred you here.

Without Scan Tool-Learn

1. DTCs P0101, P0102, P0103, P0107, P0108, P0111, P0112, P0113, P0506, and P0507 are not set.
2. The engine speed is between 450-4,000 RPM.
3. The manifold absolute pressure (MAP) is greater than 5 kPa.
4. The mass air flow (MAF) is greater than 2 g/s.
5. The ignition 1 voltage is greater than 10 volts.
6. Start and idle the engine in PARK for 3 minutes.
7. With a scan tool, monitor desired and actual RPM.
8. The ECM will start to learn the new idle cells and Desired RPM should start to decrease.
9. Ignition OFF for 60 seconds.
10. Start and idle the engine in PARK for 3 minutes.
11. After the 3 minute run time the engine should be idling normal. IMPORTANT: During the drive cycle the check engine light may come on with idle speed DTCs. If idle speed codes are set, clear codes so the ECM can continue to learn. If the engine idle speed has not been learned the vehicle will need to be driven at speeds above 70 km/h (44 mph) with several decelerations and extended idles.
12. After the drive cycle, the engine should be idling normally. If the engine idle speed has not been learned, turn OFF the ignition for 60 seconds and repeat step 6.
13. Once the engine speed has returned to normal, clear DTCs.

Fuel Pressure Relief (Without CH 48027)

1. If the fuel system requires repair, prevent fuel spillage by removing the fuel pump fuse. Refer to «Electrical Center Identification Views»(ref-338181-S33900845042009081700000) .
2. Loosen the fuel fill cap in order to relieve the fuel tank vapor pressure.
3. Remove the engine cover, if required.
4. Remove the fuel rail service port cap.
5. Wrap a shop towel around the fuel rail service port and using a small flat-bladed tool, depress (open) the fuel rail test port valve.
6. Remove the shop towel from around the fuel rail service port, and place in an approved gasoline container.
7. Install the fuel rail service port cap.
8. Install the engine cover, if required.
9. Tighten the fuel fill cap.

Fuel System Cleaning

The following procedure covers the disassembly and the inspection of the complete fuel supply system. If the fuel system is contaminated, the fuel system can be cleaned. You can usually determine the extent of the fuel system contamination during the disassembly.

1. Remove the in-line fuel filter. Refer to «Fuel Filter Replacement»(ref-338170-S16458682712009081700000) .
2. Inspect the fuel system for contamination of the in-line fuel filter. Replace the filter after cleaning the fuel lines if the filter is plugged or contaminated.
3. Remove the fuel module assemblies. Refer to «Primary Fuel Tank Module Replacement»(ref-338170-S02922558152009081700000) and «Secondary Fuel Tank Module Replacement»(ref-338170-S40011182812009081700000) .
4. Locate the tank in a suitable work area away from any heat, any flame, or any other source of ignition.
5. Perform the following procedures: Inspect the fuel sender strainer. Replace the primary fuel tank module if the strainer is contaminated. Inspect the secondary fuel tank module for debris. Clean the secondary fuel tank module if debris is found. WARNING: Wear safety glasses when using compressed air, as flying dirt particles may cause eye injury. Use compressed air in order to apply air pressure to the transfer tube.
6. Flush the fuel tank with running hot water for at least five minutes. Pour the water out of the fuel sender assembly opening. Rock the tank in order to ensure that the removal of the water from the tank is complete.
7. Disconnect the fuel feed hose/pipe from the fuel rail. Refer to «Metal Collar Quick Connect Fitting Service»(ref-338170-S27093434652009081700000) .
8. Use compressed air in order to apply air pressure to the fuel lines in the opposite direction from the normal fuel flow.
9. Remove the fuel injectors and fuel rail. Refer to «Fuel Injector and Fuel Rail Replacement»(ref-338170-S39764254292009081700000) .
10. Clean and inspect the fuel injectors and fuel rail.

Cleaning Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(ref-338130-S15906308302009081700000) .
2. Remove the EVAP canister. Refer to «Evaporative Emission Canister Replacement»(ref-338170-S28380566042009081700000) .
3. Turn OFF the main valve on the J 41413 .
4. Disconnect the hose from the diagnostic station pressure regulator.
5. Using a section of vacuum hose, connect one end onto the EVAP pressure/purge diagnostic station pressure regulator.
6. Connect the other end of the vacuum hose to the canister side of the purge pipe.
7. Turn ON the main nitrogen cylinder valve and continue to discharge nitrogen for 15 seconds.
8. If the nitrogen does not clear the blockage, replace the purge pipe.
9. Return the EVAP pressure/purge diagnostic station to the stations original condition.
10. Install a new EVAP canister. Refer to «Evaporative Emission Canister Replacement»(ref-338170-S28380566042009081700000) .
11. Lower the vehicle.
12. Install a new EVAP canister purge valve. Refer to «Evaporative Emission Canister Purge Solenoid Valve Replacement»(ref-338170-S41193668772009081700000) .
13. Return to the diagnostic table that sent you here.

ECM Function

The engine control module (ECM) can supply 5 volts or 12 volts to the various sensors or switches. This is done through pull-up resistors to the regulated power supplies within the ECM. In some cases, even an ordinary shop voltmeter will not give an accurate reading because the resistance is too low. Therefore, a DMM with at least 10 megaohms input impedance is required in order to ensure accurate voltage readings.

The ECM controls the output circuits by controlling the ground or the power feed circuit through the transistors or a device called an output driver module.

EEPROM

The electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) is a permanent memory that is physically part of the engine control module (ECM). The EEPROM contains program and calibration information that the ECM needs in order to control the powertrain operation.

Special equipment, as well as the correct program and calibration for the vehicle, are required in order to reprogram the ECM.

Data Link Connector (DLC)

The data link connector (DLC) is a 16-pin connector that provides the technician a means of accessing serial data for aid in the diagnosis. This connector allows the technician to use a scan tool in order to monitor the various serial data parameters, and display the DTC information. The DLC is located inside of the drivers compartment, underneath the dash.

ECM Service Precautions

The engine control module (ECM), by design, can withstand the normal current draws that are associated with the vehicle operations. However, care must be used in order to avoid overloading any of these circuits. When testing for opens or shorts, do not ground or apply voltage to any of the ECM circuits unless the diagnostic procedure instructs you to do so. These circuits should only be tested with a DMM.

Aftermarket (Add-On) Electrical And Vacuum Equipment

Aftermarket, add-on, electrical and vacuum equipment is defined as any equipment installed on a vehicle after leaving the factory that connects to the vehicles electrical or vacuum systems. No allowances have been made in the vehicle design for this type of equipment.

Add-on electrical equipment, even when installed to these strict guidelines, may still cause the powertrain system to malfunction. This may also include equipment not connected to the vehicle electrical system, such as portable telephones and radios. Therefore, the first step in diagnosing any powertrain condition is to eliminate all of the aftermarket electrical equipment from the vehicle. After this is done, if the problem still exists, the problem may be diagnosed in the normal manner.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Damage

Note. In order to prevent possible electrostatic discharge damage to the engine control module (ECM), DO NOT touch the connector pins on the ECM.

The electronic components that are used in the control systems are often designed to carry very low voltage. The electronic components are susceptible to damage caused by electrostatic discharge. Less than 100 volts of static electricity can cause damage to some electronic components.

There are several ways for a person to become statically charged. The most common methods of charging are by friction and by induction. An example of charging by friction is a person sliding across a car seat.

Charging by induction occurs when a person with well insulated shoes stands near a highly charged object and momentarily touches ground. Charges of the same polarity are drained off leaving the person highly charged with the opposite polarity. Static charges can cause damage, therefore, it is important to use care when handling and testing electronic components.

Emissions Control Information Label

The underhood Vehicle Emissions Control Information Label contains important emission specifications and setting procedures. In the upper left corner is the exhaust emission information. This identifies the year, the manufacturing division of the engine, the displacement of the engine in liters, the class of the vehicle, and type of fuel metering system. There is also an illustrated emission components and vacuum hose schematic.

This label is located in the engine compartment of every General Motors vehicle. If the label has been removed, it can be ordered from GM service parts operations (GMSPO).

Normal Mode

During the operation of the TAC system, several modes, or functions, are considered normal. The following modes may be entered during normal operations

1. Minimum pedal value-At key-up, the ECM updates the learned minimum pedal value.
2. Minimum throttle position values-At key-up, the ECM updates the learned minimum throttle position value. In order to learn the minimum throttle position value, the throttle blade is moved to the Closed position.
3. Ice break mode-If the throttle blade is not able to reach a predetermined minimum throttle position, the ice break mode is entered. During the ice break mode, the ECM commands the maximum pulse width several times to the throttle actuator motor in the closing direction.
4. Minimum pedal value-At key-up, the ECM updates the learned minimum pedal value.
5. Battery saver mode-After a predetermined time without engine RPM, the ECM commands the battery saver mode. During the battery saver mode, the TAC module removes the voltage from the motor control circuits, which removes the current draw used to maintain the idle position and allows the throttle to return to the spring loaded default position.

Reduced Engine Power Mode

When the ECM detects a condition with the TAC system, the ECM may enter a reduced engine power mode. Reduced engine power may cause one or more of the following conditions

1. Acceleration limiting-The ECM will continue to use the accelerator pedal for throttle control, however, the vehicle acceleration is limited.
2. Limited throttle mode-The ECM will continue to use the accelerator pedal for throttle control, however, the maximum throttle opening is limited.
3. Throttle default mode-The ECM will turn OFF the throttle actuator motor, and the throttle will return to the spring loaded default position.
4. Forced idle mode-The ECM will perform the following actions: Limit engine speed to idle positioning the throttle position, or by controlling the fuel and spark if the throttle is turned OFF. Ignore the accelerator pedal input.
5. Engine shutdown mode-The ECM will disable fuel and de-energize the throttle actuator.

Fuel Tank

The fuel storage tank is made of high density polyethylene. The fuel storage tank is held in place by 2 metal straps that are attached to the underbody of the vehicle. The tank shape includes a sump in order to maintain a constant supply of fuel around the fuel pump strainer during low fuel conditions or during aggressive maneuvers.

The fuel tank also contains a fuel vapor vent valve with a roll-over protection. The vent valve also features a 2-phase vent calibration which increases the fuel vapor flow to the canister when the operating temperatures increase the tank pressure beyond an established threshold.

On-Board Refueling Vapor Recovery (ORVR) System

The on-board refueling vapor recovery (ORVR) system is an on-board vehicle system to recover fuel vapors during the vehicle refueling operation. The flow of liquid fuel down to the fuel tank filler neck provides a liquid seal. The purpose of ORVR is to prevent refueling vapor from exiting the fuel tank filler neck.

Fuel Tank Filler Pipe

In order to prevent refueling with leaded fuel, the fuel filler pipe has a built-in restrictor and a deflector. The opening in the restrictor will accept only the smaller unleaded gasoline fuel nozzle which must be fully inserted in order to bypass the deflector. The tank is vented during filling by an internal vent tube inside of the filler pipe.

Scheme 96

The fuel tank filler pipe is equipped with a turn to vent screw on the type cap which incorporates a ratchet action in order to prevent over-tightening.

The turn to vent feature allows the fuel tank pressure relief prior to removal. Instructions for proper use are imprinted on the cap cover. A vacuum safety relief valve is incorporated into this cap.

Scheme 97

The modular fuel sender assembly mounts to the threaded opening of the plastic fuel tank with a multi-lipped seal and a threaded retainer (nut). The reservoir, containing the exterior inlet strainer, the electric fuel pump, and the pump strainer, maintains contact with the tank bottom. This design provides

1. Optimum fuel level in the integral fuel reservoir during all fuel tank levels and during driving conditions
2. An improved tank fuel level measuring accuracy
3. An improved coarse straining and added pump inlet filtering
4. More extensive internal fuel pump isolation for noiseless operation

The modular fuel sender assembly maintains an optimum fuel level in the reservoir (bucket). The fuel entering the reservoir is drawn in by the following components

1. The first stage of the fuel pump through the external strainer AND/OR
2. The secondary umbrella valve OR
3. The return fuel line, whenever the level of fuel is below the top of the reservoir

Fuel Pump

The electric fuel pump is a turbine pump which is located inside of the modular fuel sender. The electric fuel pump operation is controlled by the engine control module (ECM) through the fuel pump relay.

Fuel Sender Strainers

The strainers act as a coarse filter to perform the following functions

1. Filter contaminants
2. Separate water from fuel
3. Provide a wicking action that helps draw fuel into the fuel pump

Fuel stoppage at the strainer indicates that the fuel tank contains an abnormal amount of sediment or water. Therefore, the fuel tank will need to be removed and cleaned, and the filter strainer should be replaced.

Scheme 98

The fuel filter is located on the fuel feed pipe, between the fuel pump and the fuel rail. The electric fuel pump supplies fuel through the in-line fuel filter to the fuel injection system. The fuel pressure regulator keeps the fuel available to the fuel injectors at a regulated pressure. Unused fuel is returned from the fuel filter to the fuel tank by a separate fuel return pipe. The paper filter element (2) traps particles in the fuel that may damage the fuel injection system. The filter housing (1) is made to withstand maximum fuel system pressure, exposure to fuel additives, and changes in temperature. There is no service interval for fuel filter replacement. Replace a restricted fuel filter.

EVAP Lines and Hoses

The evaporative emission (EVAP) line extends from the fuel tank vent valve to the EVAP canister and into the engine compartment. The EVAP line is made of nylon and connects to the EVAP canister with a fuel resistant rubber hose and quick connect fittings.

Scheme 99

The fuel pressure regulator attaches to the fuel return pipe on the fuel sender assembly. The fuel pressure regulator is a diaphragm-operated relief valve. A software bias compensates the injector on-time because the fuel pressure regulator is not referenced to manifold vacuum. The injector pulse width varies with the signal from the mass air flow/intake air temperature (MAF/IAT) sensor.

With the engine running at idle, the system fuel pressure at the pressure test connection should be between 380-410 kPa (55-60 psi). With the system pressurized and the pump OFF, the pressure should stabilize and hold. If the pressure regulator supplies a fuel pressure which is too low or too high, a driveability condition will result.

Fuel Rail

The fuel rail consists of 3 parts

1. The pipe that carries fuel to each injector
2. The fuel pressure test port
3. Eight individual fuel injectors

The fuel rail is mounted on the intake manifold and distributes the fuel to each cylinder through the individual injectors.

Fuel Injectors

The fuel injector is a solenoid device that is controlled by the engine control module (ECM). When the ECM energizes the injector coil, a normally closed ball valve opens, allowing the fuel to flow past a director plate to the injector outlet. The director plate has holes that control the fuel flow, generating a dual conical spray pattern of finely atomized fuel at the injector outlet. The fuel from the outlet is directed at both of the intake valves, causing the fuel to become further vaporized before entering the combustion chamber.

The fuel injectors will cause various driveability conditions if the following conditions occur

1. If the injectors will not open
2. If the injectors are stuck open
3. If the injectors are leaking
4. If the injectors have a low coil resistance

Engine Fueling

The engine is fueled by 8 individual injectors, one for each cylinder, that are controlled by the engine control module (ECM). The ECM controls each injector by energizing the injector coil for a brief period once every other engine revolution. The length of this brief period, or pulse, is carefully calculated by the ECM to deliver the correct amount of fuel for proper driveability and emissions control. The period of time when the injector is energized is called the pulse width and is measured in milliseconds, thousandths of a second.

While the engine is running, the ECM is constantly monitoring the inputs and recalculating the appropriate pulse width for each injector. The pulse width calculation is based on the injector flow rate, mass of fuel the energized injector will pass per unit of time, the desired air/fuel ratio, and actual air mass in each cylinder and is adjusted for battery voltage, short term, and long term fuel trim (FT). The calculated pulse is timed to occur as each cylinders intake valves are closing to attain largest duration and most vaporization.

Fueling during a crank is slightly different than fueling during an engine run. As the engine begins to turn, a prime pulse may be injected to speed starting. As soon as the ECM can determine where in the firing order the engine is, the ECM begins pulsing the injectors. The pulse width during the crank is based on the coolant temperature and the engine load.

The fueling system has several automatic adjustments in order to compensate for the differences in the fuel system hardware, the driving conditions, the fuel used, and the vehicle aging. The basis for the fuel control is the pulse width calculation that is described above. Included in this calculation are an adjustment for the battery voltage, the short term FT, and the long term FT. The battery voltage adjustment is necessary since the changes in the voltage across the injector affect the injector flow rate.

Fuel Trim

The engine control module (ECM) controls the air/fuel metering system in order to provide the best possible combination of driveability, fuel economy, and emission control. The ECM monitors the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) signal voltage while fuel injectors based on this signal. The ideal fuel trim (FT) values are around 0 percent for both short term and long term FT. A positive FT value indicates the ECM is adding fuel in order to compensate for a lean condition by increasing the pulse width. A negative FT value indicates that the ECM is reducing the amount of fuel in order to compensate for a rich condition by decreasing the pulse width. A change made to the fuel delivery changes the short term and long term FT values. The short term FT values change rapidly in response to the HO2S signal voltage. These changes fine tune the engine fueling. The long term FT makes coarse adjustments to fueling in order to re-center and restore control to short term FT. A scan tool can be used to monitor the short term and long term FT values. A block of cells contain information arranged in combinations of engine RPM and load for a full range of vehicle operating conditions. The long term FT diagnostic is based on an average of cells currently being used. If the powertrain control module (PCM) detects an excessive lean or rich condition, the ECM will set a FT DTC.

Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)

The engine control module (ECM) controls the fuel injectors based on information that the ECM receives from several information sensors. Each injector is fired individually in the engine firing order, which is called sequential fuel injection. This allows precise fuel metering to each cylinder and improves the driveability under all of the driving conditions.

The ECM has several operating modes for fuel control, depending on the information that has been received from the sensors.

Starting Mode

When the engine control module (ECM) detects reference pulses from the crankshaft position (CKP) sensor, the ECM will enable the fuel pump. The fuel pump runs and builds up pressure in the fuel system. The ECM then monitors the mass air flow (MAF), intake air temperature (IAT), engine coolant temperature (ECT), and the throttle position (TP) sensor signal in order to determine the required injector pulse width for starting.

Clear Flood Mode

If the engine is flooded with fuel during starting and will not start, the Clear Flood Mode can be manually selected. To select Clear Flood Mode, push the accelerator to wide open throttle (WOT). With this signal, the engine control module (ECM) will completely turn OFF the injectors and will maintain this stage as long as the ECM indicates a WOT condition with engine speed below 1,000 RPM.

Run Mode

The Run Mode has 2 conditions: Open Loop operation and Closed Loop operation. When the engine is first started and the engine speed is above 480 RPM, the system goes into an Open Loop operation. In an Open Loop operation, the engine control module (ECM) ignores the signals from the oxygen sensors and calculates the required injector pulse width based primarily on inputs from the mass air flow (MAF), intake air temperature (IAT), and engine coolant temperatures (ECT) sensors.

In a Closed Loop, the ECM adjusts the calculated injector pulse width for each bank of injectors based on the signals from each oxygen sensor.

Acceleration Mode

The engine control module (ECM) monitors the changes in the throttle position (TP) and the mass air flow (MAF) sensor signals in order to determine when the vehicle is being accelerated. The ECM will then increase the injector pulse width in order to provide more fuel for improved driveability.

Deceleration Mode

The engine control module (ECM) monitors changes in the throttle position (TP) and the mass air flow (MAF) sensor signals to determine when the vehicle is being decelerated. The ECM will then decrease injector pulse width or even shut OFF injectors for short periods to reduce exhaust emissions.

Battery Voltage Correction Mode

The engine control module (ECM) can compensate in order to maintain acceptable vehicle driveability when the ECM sees a low battery voltage condition. The ECM compensates by performing the following functions

1. Increasing the injector pulse width in order to maintain the proper amount of fuel being delivered
2. Increasing the idle speed to increase the generator output

Fuel Shut-Off Mode

The engine control module (ECM) has the ability to completely turn OFF all of the injectors or selectively turn OFF some of the injectors when certain conditions are met. These fuel shut-off modes allow the ECM to protect the engine from damage and also to improve the vehicles driveability.

The ECM will disable all injectors under the following conditions

1. Ignition OFF-Prevents engine run-on
2. Ignition ON but no ignition reference signal-Prevents flooding or backfiring
3. A high engine speed-Above the red line
4. A high vehicle speed-Above the rated tire speed
5. The extended high speed closed throttle coastdown-Reduces the emissions and increases engine braking

The ECM will selectively disable the injectors under the following conditions

1. The torque management enabled-Transmission shifts or abusive maneuvers
2. The traction control enabled-In conjunction with the front brakes applying

Check Gas Cap Message

The control module sends a class 2 message to the driver information center (DIC) illuminating the Check Gas Cap message when a malfunction in the evaporative emission (EVAP) system and a large leak test fails.

EVAP System Components

The evaporative emission (EVAP) system consists of the following components

EVAP Canister

The canister is filled with carbon pellets used to absorb and store fuel vapors. Fuel vapor is stored in the canister until the control module determines that the vapor can be consumed in the normal combustion process.

EVAP Purge Solenoid Valve

The EVAP purge solenoid valve controls the flow of vapors from the EVAP system to the intake manifold. The purge solenoid valve opens when commanded ON by the control module. This normally closed valve is pulse width modulated (PWM) by the control module to precisely control the flow of fuel vapor to the engine. The valve will also be opened during some portions of the EVAP testing, allowing engine vacuum to enter the EVAP system.

EVAP Vent Solenoid Valve

The EVAP vent solenoid valve controls fresh airflow into the EVAP canister. The valve is normally open. The control module commands the valve ON, closing the valve during some EVAP tests, allowing the system to be tested for leaks.

Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor

The fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor measures the difference between the pressure or vacuum in the fuel tank and outside air pressure. The control module provides a 5-volt reference and a ground to the FTP sensor. The FTP sensor provides a signal voltage back to the control module that can vary between 0.1-4.9 volts. A high FTP sensor voltage indicates a low fuel tank pressure or vacuum. A low FTP sensor voltage indicates a high fuel tank pressure.

Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor

The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor circuits consist of an engine control module (ECM) supplied 5-volt reference circuit, low reference circuit and an output signal circuit. The CKP sensor is an internally magnetic biased digital output integrated circuit sensing device. The sensor detects magnetic flux changes of the teeth and slots of a 58-tooth reluctor wheel on the crankshaft. Each tooth on the reluctor wheel is spaced at 60-tooth spacing, with 2 missing teeth for the reference gap. The CKP sensor produces an ON/OFF DC voltage of varying frequency, with 58 output pulses per crankshaft revolution. The frequency of the CKP sensor output depends on the velocity of the crankshaft. The CKP sensor sends a digital signal, which represents an image of the crankshaft reluctor wheel, to the ECM as each tooth on the wheel rotates past the CKP sensor. The ECM uses each CKP signal pulse to determine crankshaft speed and decodes the crankshaft reluctor wheel reference gap to identify crankshaft position. This information is then used to determine the optimum ignition and injection points of the engine. The ECM also uses CKP sensor output information to determine the camshaft relative position to the crankshaft, to control camshaft phasing, and to detect cylinder misfire.

Crankshaft Reluctor Wheel

The crankshaft reluctor wheel is part of the crankshaft. The reluctor wheel contains a pattern around the circumference of the wheel consisting of 58 teeth and a reference gap. Each tooth on the reluctor wheel is spaced at 60 tooth spacing, or 6 degrees apart from each other with 2 missing teeth for the reference gap. The engine control module (ECM) uses the teeth and reference gap to determine the crankshaft position (CKP) and speed.

Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor

Each camshaft position (CMP) sensor is a 3-wire sensor that provides a digital output signal. The wire circuits consist of an engine control module (ECM) supplied 5-volt reference circuit, a low reference circuit between the CMP sensor and the ECM, and an output signal circuit from the CMP sensor to the ECM. The CMP sensor detects magnetic flux changes between the teeth and slots on the reluctor wheel. The CMP sensor provides a digital ON/OFF DC voltage of varying frequency width output pulses per each camshaft revolution. The frequency of the CMP sensor output signal depends on the speed of the camshaft. The ECM will recognize the narrow and wide tooth patterns to identify camshaft position, or which cylinder is in compression and which is in exhaust. The information is then used to determine the correct time and sequence for fuel injection and ignition spark events. The ECM also uses the CMP sensor output signal to determine the camshaft relative position to the crankshaft position.

Camshaft Reluctor Wheel

The CMP sensors are used by the ECM to monitor the position of the camshafts. The intake cam sensor wheels have 4X targets. The exhaust cam sensor wheels have a 4X target. The ECM can detect a camshaft position variance as small as 4 degrees. The variance is the difference between the actual camshaft position and the desired camshaft position.

Knock Sensor (KS)

The knock sensor (KS) system enables the control module to control the ignition timing for the best possible performance while protecting the engine from potentially damaging levels of detonation. The control module uses the KS system to test for abnormal engine noise that may indicate detonation, also known as spark knock.

The KS system uses 2 flat response 2-wire sensors. The sensor uses piezo-electric crystal technology that produces an AC voltage signal of varying amplitude and frequency based on the engine vibration or noise level. The amplitude and frequency are dependant upon the level of knock that the KS detects. The control module receives the KS signal through the signal circuit.

The control module learns a minimum noise level, or background noise, at idle from the KS and uses calibrated values for the rest of the RPM range. The control module uses the minimum noise level to calculate a noise channel. A normal KS signal will ride within the noise channel. As engine speed and load change, the noise channel upper and lower parameters will change to accommodate the normal KS signal, keeping the signal within the channel. In order to determine which cylinders are knocking, the control module only uses KS signal information when each cylinder is near top dead center (TDC) of the firing stroke. If knock is present, the signal will range outside of the noise channel.

If the control module has determined that knock is present, it will retard the ignition timing to attempt to eliminate the knock. The control module will always try to work back to a zero compensation level, or no spark retard. An abnormal KS signal will stay outside of the noise channel or will not be present. KS diagnostics are calibrated to detect faults with the KS circuitry inside the control module, the KS wiring, or the KS voltage output. Some diagnostics are also calibrated to detect constant noise from an outside influence such as a loose/damaged component or excessive engine mechanical noise.

Ignition Coils

Each ignition coil has an ignition 1 voltage feed and a ground circuit. The engine control module (ECM) supplies a low reference and an ignition control (IC) circuit. Each ignition coil contains a solid state driver module. The ECM will command the IC circuit ON, which allows the current to flow through the primary coil windings for the appropriate time or dwell. When the ECM commands the IC circuit OFF, this will interrupt current flow through the primary coil windings. The magnetic field created by the primary coil windings will collapse across the secondary coil windings, which induces a high voltage across the spark plug electrodes. The primary coils are current limited to prevent overloading if the IC circuit is held ON for an extended time.

Engine Control Module (ECM)

The engine control module (ECM) controls all ignition system functions, and constantly corrects the basic spark timing. The ECM monitors information from various sensor inputs that include the following

1. The throttle actuator control (TAC) system
2. The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor
3. The mass airflow (MAF) sensor
4. The intake air temperature (IAT) sensor
5. The vehicle speed sensor (VSS)
6. The transmission gear position or range information sensors
7. The engine knock sensor (KS)