Oldsmobile/Buick Repair: Cam Sensor replacement, smog inspection, buick lesabre

Question
1989 Buick LeSabre 3.8L - is it necessary to remove timming cover to replace sensor? OR,is my Chilton's manual correct saying it is an external replacement? Thanks FFrost

Answer
Fred,
The sensor is outside the on the timing cover just below the water pump pulley. The magnet which triggers the sensor is on the timing gear it self and you do have to remove the cover.If a new sensor doesn't repair the it likely your magnet has fallen off.I haven't seen any cars damaged by the parts of the magnet in the oil pan because it sticks to something and stays there. Money always being a factor, the car will run different without the sensor. With it the fuel injection is sequential without it its sink-pulse. I think the engine will get the car around with a bit less gas mileage and a bit less performance along with more emissions but it won't damage the engine. If you need time to make the repair it shouldn't harm the engine. This is my opinion and you won't pass a smog inspection with the code 41 and the check engine light on. I hope this helps you
                      John