The crankshaft position sensor or CKP, on a Chevy Silverado attaches to the transmission bell housing under the starter. When the engine is running, it sends an electronic pulse to the vehicle's on-board computer -- the power train control module, which determines the firing order of the cylinders. A faulty CKP will affect the ignition system; you may notice rough idling, engine misfires or hesitation during acceleration. Replacing a faulty CKP is a straightforward task.
Raise the hood and locate the battery in the front, driver's side of the vehicle. Remove the negative (black) terminal clamp from the battery with an adjustable wrench.
Chock the rear wheels. Raise the front of the Silverado with a jack, then slowly lower it to rest securely on jack stands. Locate the starter; under the engine attached to the transmission bell housing, on the passenger side.
Remove the starter shield retaining bolt secured to the transmission bell housing with a socket wrench. Remove the starter mounting bolts. Move the starter away from the bell housing a little until you are able to remove the starter shield.
Lower the starter from the mounting and carefully through the transmission cooler lines. Disconnect the nuts that secure the electrical connectors to the starter with an adjustable wrench, then pull the connectors off. Remove the starter from the Silverado. The CKP is now accessible.
Pull the tab on the CKP electrical connector out and away from it. Loosen the CKP mounting bolt with a socket wrench and remove it from the vehicle.
To reinstall the CKP, follow the steps for removal in reverse order.
