The camshaft sensor is located on the front of the engine, just behind the water pump. It is a small, cylindrical sensor with a single wire connector.
Could a Bad Camshaft Sensor Cause a Head Gasket Failure?
Yes, a bad camshaft sensor can cause a head gasket failure. The camshaft sensor is responsible for sending a signal to the engine's computer (PCM) about the position of the camshaft. This signal is used by the PCM to control the timing of the engine's fuel injection and ignition. If the camshaft sensor is bad, the PCM may not be able to accurately control the timing of the engine, which can lead to engine knocking, pinging, and eventually a head gasket failure.
If You're Changing the Head Gasket, It's a Good Idea to Replace the Camshaft Sensor as Well
Since a bad camshaft sensor can cause a head gasket failure, it's a good idea to replace the camshaft sensor at the same time that you're replacing the head gasket. This will help to ensure that the engine is running properly after the repair.
Here are the steps involved in replacing the camshaft sensor on a 1997 Chevy S-10 Blazer:
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the air cleaner housing.
3. Locate the camshaft sensor on the front of the engine, just behind the water pump.
4. Disconnect the electrical connector from the camshaft sensor.
5. Remove the two bolts that hold the camshaft sensor in place.
6. Remove the camshaft sensor from the engine.
7. Install a new camshaft sensor. Be careful not to drop the sensor into the engine!
8. Hand-tighten the two bolts that hold the camshaft sensor in place.
9. Connect the electrical connector to the camshaft sensor.
10. Reinstall the air cleaner housing.
11. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
12. Start the engine and check for leaks.
If you don't feel comfortable replacing the camshaft sensor yourself, you can take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic to have it done.
