In 1997, Ford gave the F-150 its first major redesign since 1980, resulting in improved aerodynamics, a roomier interior and better fuel economy. The F-150 and light-payload F-250 were spun off onto a new chassis, allowing Ford to use the previous chassis under their new Super Duty trucks. A 4.2-liter V-6 engine came standard in every 1997 F-150 trim level except for the Lariat. Replace the crankshaft position sensor in your V-6 in your driveway with no special tools.
Park the truck on stable, solid ground. Open the hood and allow the engine to cool completely. Chock the rear wheels. Locate the front jacking bracket on the frame, just to the rear of the lower control arm pivot. Lift the front of the truck, using a jack beneath the jacking brackets, and support the truck on jack stands as close to the jack as possible.
Locate the CKP sensor on the front of the engine block, just above the crankshaft pulley. Disconnect the electrical plug from the sensor terminal.
Remove the sensor shield nuts, using a ratchet and socket, then remove the shield. Wipe the area around the sensor with a clean shop rag to remove loose debris or dirt. Remove the sensor bolts, using a ratchet and socket, then remove the sensor from the engine block.
Insert the new sensor into its hole in the crankcase. Install the sensor bolts and torque them to 6 to 9 foot-pounds, using a foot-pound torque wrench and socket. Install the shield and mounting nuts, then torque them to 18 to 36 inch-pounds, using an inch-pound torque wrench and socket. Plug the electrical connector into the sensor.
Lower the F-150 to the ground and remove the wheel chocks. Test run the engine.
