I need some info on the camshaft sensor on my truck. when I disconnect the wire from the sensor the engine runs ok. Is this normal? How does the engine remember its timing? I checked the sensor with a voltmeter and it fine but I get no reading from the wire.

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1998 F150 Triton 5.4L
K&N Air Filter

 

Nacho, I took a class a couple of years ago about Direct Spark Ignition (DSI). From what I understand, when you crank the motor it looks for the "sink" signal which can come from a sensor off the cam. This would tell it when say cylinder number one is at TDC. Once it knows this and it already knows the firing order it's just a matter of counting or running the firing order over and over. Another thing I learned with DSI is with Fords system, if it fails to see the "sink" signal and you just keep cycling (turning off and on the key) with each attempt of starting the motor it will eventually get lucky and start. Then you can have it checked out/repaired. On Chevy's you need to ground out one of the terminals while cranking the motor (taping the grounded out wire to simulate the "sink" signal"). It will eventually start. But Dodge.....call a tow truck S.O.L.

I may be completely wrong about this whole thing but this is what I believe is the reason for your situation.

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F150IslandBoy
1997 F150 Lariat
SuperCab, Toreador Red w/ Gold, Styleside, 4.6L, A/T, A/C, 3.55 3800 Limited Slip, Class 3 Tow Package, Leather Captain Seats, Sliding Rear Window.
Modifications:
Airaid FIPK, Flowmaster Delta Flow 50 Series, Bugflector II, Viper 500ESP Alarm, Pendaliner Bedliner, Cobra Trapshooter 3 Radar Detector, CARR Tubular Nerf Bars, NFA 1400 Compact 55W=>85W Halogen O.E. Lights, Durango 255/70R16, Chrome eyelet tie downs, Smoked front lic. plate cover.