Re: throttle position sensor 1990 Civic - junkyard part?
 

Jim Yanik wrote:
> jim beam <spamvortex@bad.example.net> wrote in
> news:1LCdnfX7uZpu7CjYnZ2dnUVZ_tadnZ2d@speakeasy.ne t:
>
>> Jim Yanik wrote:
>>> jim beam <spamvortex@bad.example.net> wrote in
>>> news:xPqdnRKW25XOVCnYnZ2dnUVZ_qarnZ2d@speakeasy.ne t:
>>>
>>>> dex3703 wrote:
>>>>> Hi all,
>>>>>
>>>>> Thanks for the responses. Yes, it is a code 7. I read elsewhere on
>>>>> the group that this code is generally reliable.
>>>>>
>>>>> The problem has been over the last couple months, with the code set
>>>>> last week. I presume this would explain the bogging, dropping revs
>>>>> and seeming to konk out. It especially happens (when it does) when
>>>>> I'm at whatever speed I want, and then let off the gas. The problem
>>>>> is intermittent but does seem to be getting generally worse.
>>>>>
>>>>> I guess I'll tackle this next weekend then. Should I expect weird
>>>>> failures like this going forward?
>>>> the sensor has a carbon track that wears in the place where you most
>>>> commonly put the throttle while driving. if you disassemble the
>>>> sensor, you can see it. easiest solution is to replace the whole
>>>> sensor.
>>> Best solution,maybe not the "easiest"...
>> having done it both ways, i say doing it on the vehicle without removing
>> the throttle body [dpfi] /is/ the easiest way. use a chisel to start
>> the shear bolts rotating, and robert's your mother's brother.
>
> I meant replacing the sensor being easier instead of repairing it.
> (then replacing it anyways...IF you can find a new TPS to install w/o
> buying the whole throttle body.)

right, replacement is the way to go. if you use a junker, seek out the
automatics as donors.

>
> Not removing the whole TB being easier.
>>>> you can "repair" the sensor by splaying the brush so it
>>>> contacts a wider track inside, but it's a lot of effort.
>>> I suggest trying a electronic contact cleaner/lube spray.(lightly)
>>> The TPS is nothing more than a potentiometer.
>> doesn't work - it's utterly sealed.
>
> You said "splaying the brush so it contacts a wider track inside,"
> indicating YOU got it open for access,so the element CAN be sprayed.

first time, i painstakingly dremeled it open - it took ages. this was
before i realized you could remove a sensor from a junker in about 5
minutes. once you have it open, you can completely disassemble and
clean - no spray required.

> It just has to be opened up first.
> It might get you by until you can get a new TPS from somewhere shipped in.
> I doubt spraying it would be a lasting repair.

if you can buy new, i'd love to know where from!

>
> (of course,you could always drill a tiny access hole for the spray tube,and
> seal it with a piece of electrical tape to keep dirt out,if you learn where
> it's safe to drill.)

good luck! i still don't think it'll work because on mine, the carbon
track appeared worn through - spray won't fix that.

>
>>>> bottom line, replace and enjoy. symptoms are exactly as you describe.
>>>> once replaced, you'll be back to normal like nothing ever happened.
>
>
> Curious;did you find a place to buy a NEW TPS(other then a dealer),or did
> you salvage one from a junkyard part? (sensor only,not a whole throttle
> body)

junk yard - sensor only. it's literally 5 minutes - all you need is a
small hammer and a small [sharp] chisel. use the chisel to nudge the
shear nuts around so they turn by hand. on the dpfi it really is a
piece of cake. on the 4pfi, it's much harder as it's all behind the
manifold.