Misfires, backfires and stalling can be caused by a bad cam position sensor in the 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. The base model 1997 Eclipse was equipped with a 2.0-liter non-turbo DOHC engine, and the CMP sends signals to the engine control computer, monitoring the position of the No.1 piston during its power stroke. The signal is used to calibrate the fuel injection system. The idle can become uneven, and the acceleration can become hesitant if the CMP is faulty or loses signal, but the engine can still run.
Open the hood on the Eclipse and set the hood prop. Remove the intake hose from the air filter housing unit, by loosening the band clamp bolt. Remove any sensors or vacuum tubes from the intake hose, between the air filter housing and the throttle body on the upper intake.
Loosen the band clamp screw on the air intake hose at the throttle body end, then remove the intake hose from your work area. Visually inspect the camshaft sensor to see what direction the electrical connector is facing. The new sensor has to be mounted in the same position.
Detach the CMP sensor connector from the sensor. Remove the CMP retainer bolts, then pull the sensor off of the engine. Remove the target magnet from the old CMP if the new CMP does not have a target magnet. Transfer the target magnet to the new CMP sensor, and align the off-set magnet mounting holes with the off-set holes on the new sensor. Tighten the mounting screws to 2 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and a socket. Do not over tighten the screws or you will crack the plastic housing on the new sensor.
Position the sensor in the same position the old sensor was in. Tighten the mounting screws to 7 foot-pounds. Attach the electrical connector to the new CMP sensor. Install the air intake hose on the throttle body and the air filter housing. Tighten both band clamps until they are snug. Insert any sensors or vacuum hoses you may have removed from the intake hose.
