engine

Camshaft Position Sensor

for 2007 Ram 3500 5.9L I6 Cummins · 4WD

Difficulty

Easy

Time

54 min

Tools

Steps

✓Fact-checked. Built from OLP's spec database, then independently fact-checked line by line with every correction applied. Master-tech sign-off by Chris Hackleman is queued. Cross-check torque values against the factory manual, and stop if anything looks unsafe. How our data is made.

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the camshaft position sensor on the 5.9L Cummins diesel engine in a 2007 Ram 3500 4WD.

Warnings

⚠Allow engine to cool completely before beginning work to avoid burns from hot components

⚠Do not start engine with camshaft position sensor disconnected or removed as this may set diagnostic trouble codes and prevent starting

ℹ️The camshaft position sensor is located on the driver side of the engine block near the timing case cover

Tools required

10mm socket and ratchetEssential

Extension bar (3-6 inch)Essential

Flathead screwdriver or pick tool

Shop towelsEssential

Electrical contact cleaner

Torque wrench

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Parts

Camshaft position sensor × 1 — Mopar 4921686 or equivalent
O-ring seal × 1 — Usually included with sensor

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

Preparation

Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
Allow engine to cool completely
Disconnect negative battery cable to prevent accidental starting and clear any existing codes
Ensure adequate lighting and access to the driver side of the engine compartment

Procedure

1
Locate the camshaft position sensor
The camshaft position sensor is mounted on the driver side of the front timing gear cover on the 5.9L Cummins, near the top of the gear case. It is a small sensor secured by a single bolt with an electrical connector. You may need to trace the wiring harness back toward the engine control module (ECM) to locate it if visibility is limited.
2
Disconnect the electrical connector
Press the release tab on the electrical connector and pull it straight off the camshaft position sensor. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If the connector is stuck due to corrosion, gently wiggle it while pulling. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry the release tab if it is difficult to access.
3
Remove the sensor mounting bolt
Using a 10mm socket with an extension, remove the single bolt securing the camshaft position sensor to the timing gear cover. The bolt may be tight due to thread locker or corrosion. Keep the bolt for reinstallation unless it is damaged or stripped.
4
Extract the sensor from the block
Carefully pull the camshaft position sensor straight out from the timing gear cover bore. The sensor may be held in place by an O-ring seal and may require some wiggling or twisting motion to break it free. Avoid using excessive force or prying tools that could damage the sensor bore in the block.
5
Inspect the sensor bore and O-ring
Examine the bore in the timing gear cover for debris, oil contamination, or damage. Clean the bore with a shop towel if necessary. Inspect the old O-ring on the sensor and ensure it comes out completely. Check for any remaining pieces of O-ring material in the bore and remove them with a pick tool if present.
6
Prepare the new sensor
Verify the new camshaft position sensor matches the old unit in physical appearance and connector type. Install the new O-ring onto the sensor body if it came separately. Lightly lubricate the O-ring with clean engine oil to ease installation and prevent tearing. Do not use grease or other lubricants.
7
Install the new sensor
Carefully insert the new camshaft position sensor straight into the bore in the timing gear cover. Push it in until it is fully seated against the mounting surface. The sensor should slide in smoothly with light pressure. If you encounter resistance, remove and check for proper O-ring positioning or obstructions in the bore.
8
Install the mounting bolt
Thread the mounting bolt by hand first to ensure it is not cross-threaded. Tighten the mounting bolt to approximately 18 ft-lbs (24 Nm) using a torque wrench. Do not over-tighten as the sensor housing can be damaged. Verify torque against the factory service manual for your specific application.
9
Reconnect the electrical connector
Clean the electrical connector terminals with electrical contact cleaner if they appear corroded or dirty. Push the electrical connector firmly onto the camshaft position sensor until you hear or feel it click into place. Tug gently on the connector to verify it is securely latched.
10
Reconnect the battery
Reconnect the negative battery cable and tighten the terminal securely. This will restore power to the engine control module and allow it to recognize the new sensor.

Reassembly

Double-check that the electrical connector is fully seated and latched onto the new sensor
Verify the mounting bolt is secure but not over-tightened
Ensure no tools or shop towels were left in the engine compartment

Verification

Turn the ignition key to the ON position without starting the engine and verify the check engine light performs its normal self-test cycle
Start the engine and verify it starts normally without extended cranking or rough running
Allow the engine to idle and confirm it runs smoothly without misfiring or stalling
Use a scan tool to verify there are no camshaft position sensor related diagnostic trouble codes (P0340, P0341, P0342, P0343)
Test drive the vehicle to ensure normal operation under load and verify no warning lights illuminate