Crankshaft Position Sensor 2001 E320
 

Does anyone know where to find the Crankshaft Postion Sensor on an E320 Wagon (2001)?

Based upon my research here and online at the MB Startek site I think I have a bad CPS. I cannot find the thing at the back of the engine where all the literature seems to suggest it is located.

I do have what looks like the CPS right at the front of the engine within quick and easy reach.

thanks

This is what they look like.
http://catalog.eautopartscatalog.com/mercedesshop/sophio/wizard.jsp?partner=mercedesshop&clientid=catalog.mercedesshop&baseurl=http://catalog.peachparts.com/&cookieid=1W30TVH0Y1ZI0XWBXT&year=2001&make=MB&model=E-320-006&category=All&part=Reference+Sensor&appEngines=_any

Thanks - thats brings up another question. I found this when looking to buy the part online

http://www2.discountmbparts.com/parts/parts1/discountmbparts/wizard.jsp?year=2001&make=MB&model=E-320-006&category=A&part=Camshaft+Position+Sensor&dp=false

It looks a little different and is fairly similar to what Im seeing at the front of my engine but given that everything Im reading seems to indicate that its at the back of the engine im hesitant.

i have nice pics at home. will post after work if no one else has...

Thanks raymond - that would be much appreciated.

In calling around also I cant seem to find a consensus on where the thing is located. Also another thing that has me confused is that the prices for replacement parts are ranging from the high $70's to the as much as $160's. Perhaps thats the freemarket but im wondering if I have to be more specific than "I need a crankshaft position sensor for a 2001 E320 wagon".

What you're asking for is clear as a bell. It may be who you're asking for the part thats the problem.

Behind the left cylinder head in the block just before the transmission at about 11 or 1 o'clock depending how you see it, you'll find the sensor. two wires clip into it, you will need a E8 socket to remove the bolt holding it in.

here's a picture, different model but same spot on yours.

Buy the sensor (and whatever else you need to keep that Benz going) here and help support this forum. The numbers refer to the last numbers of the VIN. The location is exactly as described by Johnhef.

Thanks all for your help and johnhef for the picture. I really appreciate it and will have confidence in finding this thing where indicated instead of up at the front of the engine.

I may not be able to buy this particular part here but will definetly use the shop. I have a few other things I need/would like to get for the car.

pdf link to the file sent to PM. it's too large to attach.

i wish it was as accessible as the view from Johnhef's photo. :) with the V6s
of that vintage, with the hood raised as far as it can, you still need to be as
flexible as Gumby toy to reach it. but it's do-able. Torx fastener

about 2 ft of 1/4" extension and E8 on a flex joint does the trick ;)
Taking the engine cover off helps too.

I wanted to thank everyone again for helping me out on this. I am ordering the part today from the forum shop.

What stumped me on this one was that even though I knew the exact location of the part from Johnhefs beautiful 4 page forum reference (with pictures) I still could barely see the darn thing. I actually found it first be feeling around in its general location and even after I found it I couldnt get any angle where I could actually see it well let alone the type or size of bolt holding it in place.

I ended up fitting a 1/4 socket over it and using a universal and an extension was finally able to loosen it. Removing it required more torque than I expect and in fact defeated my attempt to use a flexible extension which twisted up.

Anyway I really appreciate all the help.

While im at it I wonder if anyone could tell me what this part does

http://catalog.eautopartscatalog.com/mercedesshop/sophio/wizard.jsp?partner=mercedesshop&clientid=catalog.mercedesshop&baseurl=http://catalog.peachparts.com/&cookieid=1ZI12GYL71ZL0YLQGY&year=2001&make=MB&model=E-320-006&category=All&part=Camshaft+Position+Sensor

At first I thought that was the problem. Its actaully I guess the camshaft position sensor vs this one

http://catalog.eautopartscatalog.com/mercedesshop/sophio/wizard.jsp?partner=mercedesshop&clientid=catalog.mercedesshop&baseurl=http://catalog.peachparts.com/&cookieid=1W30TVH0Y1ZI0XWBXT&year=2001&make=MB&model=E-320-006&category=All&part=Reference+Sensor&appEngines=_any

which I guess is the crankshaft position sensor.

Should I replace both while Im at it?

How do I know which is actually causing my trouble?

thanks

I just changed the crankshaft PS on my 2000 C280. My symptoms were erratic no start and car dying when coming to a stop. Restart was simply a matter of waiting. The rear sensor is frustrating as it is all done by feel. No access from below on my car. It is a Torx E8 fitting.

The other part is the camshaft PS and is very easy to replace.

I forget which one, but one is VIN# dependent, so get the right one for your car.

glenmore
1991 300CE
2000 C280
1990 LS400