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engine

Camshaft Position Sensor

for 2017 Dodge Viper 8.4L V10 · RWD
Difficulty
Moderate
Time
1.6 h
Tools
7
Steps
10
🔍Draft — verification in progress. This procedure was built from OLP's spec database on September 13, 2026 and is queued for line-by-line review by Chris Hackleman — master technicians with 20+ years each. That review typically completes within 3 days of generation, and this banner changes to a verified badge the moment it does. Until then, cross-check every torque value and fluid capacity against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. If something looks off, report it below — a real person reads every report.

Remove and replace the camshaft position sensor on a 2008 Dodge Viper 8.4L V10 engine to restore engine timing signal and correct performance issues.

Warnings

Allow engine to cool completely before beginning work. The camshaft position sensor is located near hot exhaust components.
ℹ️The battery does not need to be disconnected for this procedure, but the vehicle must be off and key removed.
Do not rotate the engine by hand with the camshaft position sensor removed, as this may damage the sensor bore or cause timing reference errors.

Tools required

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Parts

As an Amazon Associate and Autel/ANCEL partner, OLP earns from qualifying purchases — how we link. This never changes the specs we publish.

Preparation

  1. Park vehicle on level ground and ensure engine is completely cool
  2. Remove ignition key and verify all electrical systems are off
  3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
  4. Identify camshaft position sensor location on the front timing cover, driver's side of engine block near the harmonic balancer

Procedure

  1. 1
    Access the Sensor Area
    The camshaft position sensor is located on the lower front of the engine timing cover, driver's side. You may need to remove the front inner wheel well splash shield for better access. If removing splash shield, turn the steering wheel fully to the right to gain maximum clearance, then locate and remove the plastic push pins and fasteners securing the driver's side front wheel well liner. Fold back or remove the forward section of the liner to expose the lower front engine area.
  2. 2
    Disconnect Electrical Connector
    Locate the electrical connector attached to the camshaft position sensor. Press the locking tab on the connector and pull straight back to disconnect. Do not pull on the wiring harness itself. If the connector is difficult to release, use a small flathead screwdriver to gently depress the locking tab while pulling.
    The connector locking tab is fragile. Use controlled force to avoid breaking the tab.
  3. 3
    Remove Sensor Mounting Bolt
    Using a 10mm socket with extension, remove the single bolt securing the camshaft position sensor to the timing cover. The bolt threads into the aluminum timing cover, so avoid cross-threading during removal. Keep the bolt in a safe location for reinstallation.
  4. 4
    Extract the Sensor
    Carefully pull the camshaft position sensor straight out from the timing cover. The sensor has an O-ring seal that may create some resistance. Use a gentle twisting motion while pulling if needed. Do not pry against the timing cover or use excessive force. Once removed, inspect the sensor tip for metal shavings, debris, or damage.
  5. 5
    Clean Sensor Bore
    Using a clean shop towel, wipe out the sensor bore in the timing cover. Remove any oil residue, debris, or old O-ring material. Do not insert tools into the bore that could damage the sealing surface. Inspect the bore for cracks or damage to the sealing surface.
  6. 6
    Prepare New Sensor
    Remove the new camshaft position sensor from its packaging. Verify it matches the old sensor in physical appearance and connector type. Check that a new O-ring is installed on the sensor body. If the O-ring is not pre-installed, install it in the groove on the sensor body. Apply a light coat of clean engine oil to the O-ring to ease installation and prevent tearing.
  7. 7
    Install New Sensor
    Carefully insert the new camshaft position sensor into the timing cover bore, ensuring the sensor is properly aligned and seated fully. The sensor should slide in smoothly without resistance. Push the sensor in until it bottoms against the timing cover mounting surface. Do not force the sensor, as this could damage the O-ring or internal components.
  8. 8
    Install Mounting Bolt
    Thread the mounting bolt by hand to ensure proper thread engagement, then tighten to 8-10 ft-lbs using a torque wrench and 10mm socket. Do not overtighten, as the timing cover is aluminum and threads can strip easily.
    Overtightening the sensor mounting bolt can strip the aluminum threads in the timing cover, requiring costly repair.
  9. 9
    Reconnect Electrical Connector
    Align the electrical connector with the sensor terminal and push firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Tug gently on the connector to verify it is securely locked. If desired, apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the connector terminals before connection to prevent corrosion.
  10. 10
    Reinstall Wheel Well Liner
    If the wheel well liner was removed or folded back, reposition it and secure with all original plastic push pins and fasteners. Ensure the liner is properly seated and does not interfere with tire rotation or steering components.

Reassembly

  1. All components are reinstalled during the main procedure steps
  2. Ensure electrical connector is fully seated and locked
  3. Verify wheel well liner is properly secured if it was disturbed during access

Verification

  • Start the engine and verify it runs smoothly without misfires or rough idle
  • Check for diagnostic trouble codes using a scan tool. Any camshaft position sensor codes (P0340, P0341, P0342, P0343) should clear after a successful repair
  • Allow engine to reach operating temperature and confirm smooth operation at idle and during acceleration
  • Visually inspect the sensor area for any oil leaks around the O-ring seal
  • Test drive the vehicle to confirm normal performance and acceleration without hesitation or stumbling

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

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More procedures for this vehicle

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