I have a 97 ZX2 and the check engine light is on. Amechanic scanned it and said it was the Variable Cam Timing Positioning Sensor. He also said he would have to pull the top half of the motor off to replace it, me being a dedicated back yard mechanic told him I would get back with him. I have searched through all of my chilton/haynes books and the only thing I can find close is the Cam Positioning Sensor. Which is on the front of the motor and very accessible. I have a feeling this is it but was looking for some other opinions. Thanks in advance.

 

I had to look up 1998 to find variable cam timing. Would be able to help you better knowing what the actual code is that the mechanic found. There are a couple of TSBs related to this system that get rather complicated in the diagnosis, but the whole TSB is based on actual codes, not a description which may be arbitrary. I found no reference to a VCT sensor, although the system does use the cam sensor as one of the inputs.

This engine had a lot of problems in the VCT system due to dirty or contaminated oil, causing the actuator to stick at times. Having the correct code would be our best bet to offer assistance.

 

You're right it is a 98, I don't know where my mind was I guess because i was working on a 97 Aerostar that number stuck in my head. Any how I changed out the sensor ,disconnected the battery and waited awhile then hooked it back up. For now the light is out. Thanks for the response

 

changing the sensor is not the fix for this. the sensor code means that the sensor is working as it should and has triggered the code.

the real fix for this is almost always the proper replacement of the timing belt