Checking and replacing the pulse sensor (BMW 3 Series E36)

The DME control unit receives information about the engine speed from a pulse sensor located on the pinion behind the crankshaft pulley. A second sensor on the cylinder head or on the ignition distributor transmits information about the end of the revolution (cylinder identification).

Examination

To check, disconnect the corresponding engine wiring harness connectors.

Measure the resistance between the connector contacts of the corresponding sensor and, if necessary, replace the sensor.

Set values at +20°C:

Crankshaft pulse sensor:

• 316i, 318i: 0.5 com;
• 318is/ti, 320i, 325i, 328i: 1.3 com.

Cylinder identification sensors (all): between contacts 1 and 2 of the connectors: maximum 1 ohm; between contacts 2 and 3: more than 10 mohm.

Removal the sensor on the crankshaft

Four-cylinder engine: Remove the radiator fan.



Connectors: 1 Cylinder Identification Sensor; 2 DME pulse sensor.

Disconnect connector "2" from the cable channel. The figure shows a four-cylinder engine, on a six-cylinder engine the connectors are located in the same order next to the oil dipstick mount.

Pull the sensor wires out of the guides. On a six-cylinder engine, remove cover "1" for this (Figure W 10156).





Loosen the crankshaft pulley bolt and remove the sensor with the cover.

Installation

Insert the sensor and tighten the bolt with a tightening torque of 10 Nm.

Check the distance of the sensor from the gear with a feeler gauge. Specified value: 0.7-1.0 mm.

Carefully lay the connection wires in the guides so that they do not rub against the V-belt. Connect the connector.

Removal the cylinder identification sensor

Models 320i, 325i, 328i from September 1992: The sensor is difficult to access. Therefore, first remove the connector of the solenoid valve of the VANOS actuator and unscrew the valve.



Models 318i, 318i produced since September 1993, 318is/ti, 320i, 3251, 328i: Unscrew bolt "3" on the cylinder head and remove the sensor.

Models 316i, 318i produced before August 1993:

Remove the distributor cap.

Disconnect the ignition wire of cylinder 4 at the ignition distributor.

Remove the angled connector from this ignition wire using side cutters.

Note: A special tool is required to install the new connector.

Disconnect the induction loop of the sensor from the wire.

Pull the sensor wire out of the guide.

Disconnect the sensor connector.

Installation

Insert the sensor. Ensure that the sensor rubber gasket is correctly installed, replace the gasket if necessary.

Models 316i, 318i produced before August 1993: Assemble the spark plug wires and install the distributor cap.

Models 320i, 325i, 328i from September 1992: Screw in the VANOS solenoid valve, if necessary, replace the damaged seal first. Connect the electrical connector.