What does the cam sensor really do?

[blackgn231]

Mine was causing the problem which was driving me crazy but really don't know what it does.

 

[mikestertwo]

Mine was causing the problem which was driving me crazy but really don't know what it does.

The cam sensor starts the sequence for ignition and the injectors.

 

[Heg87t]

This may help.

http://www.gnttype.org/techarea/ecmsensors/camsensor_FAQ.html

 

[GNONYX]

Mine was causing the problem which was driving me crazy but really don't know what it does.

Give us a better description of your problem

 

[blackgn231]

I blew my HG's and after replacing them still ran bad found had a bad coil so replaced the coil and ing module still running bad, plugs, fuel filter ,PCV , checked every thing was driving crazy so someone said to discount the cam sensor after I cranked it up, so thought it was not the problem but tried it the other day and problem went away. Runs like it use to but hook it back up and runs like crap so figured must be the sensor or the cap right?

 

[GNONYX]

Don't know your mileage or is the cam sensor the original one, but in your case it doesn't matter since you need to replace the cam sensor.
Keep in mind the construction of the cam sensor having two brass or bronze sleeve bearings, and the sensor cap. While some member claims the internal tap inside the sensor cap breaks off, the sleeve bearings also wears leaving some side to side play movement. It is normal to have very little up and down shaft movement since there is a wave spring washer. If there is no side to side shaft movement, and if the tap is broken off. You could replace with the following supported vendors site:

1. http://www.gbodyparts.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=cam sensor&osCsid=c5d402cb1450ad640b5776ce70ae04cf&x=10&y=9
2. http://www.kirbanperformance.com/products.php?search_text=cam sensor&submit_button=
3. http://www.nos4gn.com/servlet/the-34/Buick-Grand-National-25516915/Detail

 

[blackgn231]

Ok pulled it and its worn out the squares at the bottom of the shaft that the shim rides against are worn out almost flat that's is were all the play was, you can shake it like a rattle toy.

 

[GNONYX]

Ok pulled it and its worn out the squares at the bottom of the shaft that the shim rides against are worn out almost flat that's is were all the play was, you can shake it like a rattle toy.

If it rattles that much then your best bet is to replace with the new cam sensor. Check with the board supported vendors since their price might be cheaper then eBay. Or check and see on the part wanted section post your need to see if other members might have a new one or a good spare one to sell.