Gen IV Cam sensor gap
Looking at converting the little Toyota 3TC hemi to full efi/sequential/dbw via TerminatorX and it's all do-able with stuff I can buy EXCEPT for a cam position signal. Thinking I can modify my existing distributor to create a single "tooth" and use an LS cam sensor to read it and send a single pulse to the ecu. Trying to get a sense of how big the tooth has to be and whether I can fit this into the stock distributor housing. Have to keep the bottom half anyway as it drives the oil pump. Also exploring engine swaps -- trying to figure out what to do is almost as much fun as finally doing it.
TECH Regular
Joined: Oct 2011
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From: Alaska
Just a thought, would it be easier to use a crank trigger system? I think Holley makes a universal kit.
Edit: Also, depending on the rotor mounting configuration, if the rotor is just a slip fit with a “notch” in the distributor shaft, you may be able to use that notch as a “tooth” for a sensor to read. You’d likely just have to program it for falling rate rather than rising rate.
Edit: Also, depending on the rotor mounting configuration, if the rotor is just a slip fit with a “notch” in the distributor shaft, you may be able to use that notch as a “tooth” for a sensor to read. You’d likely just have to program it for falling rate rather than rising rate.
TECH Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2016
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From: Central Cal.
I'm thinking put a little lump of clay on the sensor, making sure the sprocket puts a "high spot" opposite the sensor, and bolt it down, then pull it and measure the clay thickness.
Like measuring PTV, only a LOT less work....
Like measuring PTV, only a LOT less work....
Nick - it would be easier. But you have to go wasted spark and you can’t sequentially fire the injectors. Said another way, you can’t go sequential without a cam sensor that distinguishes TDC compression from TDC exhaust.
The rotor slot is all the way at the top of the shaft. I’d like to cut the distributor down as much as I can - I’ll look for a way to add a tooth of sorts further down the shaft.
The rotor slot is all the way at the top of the shaft. I’d like to cut the distributor down as much as I can - I’ll look for a way to add a tooth of sorts further down the shaft.
TECH Regular
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 453
Likes: 178
From: Alaska
The rotor shaft slot would likely be the easiest, any machine shop will be able to cut or mill in what is essentially a keyway slot. Plus, you may have the advantage of already having mounting points at the base of the inside of the distributor which may make installing a bracket and sensor easier.
