P0340 code on Ford 2.0L DOHC

Did you use the alignment tools when you did the belt? The OTC set is pretty cheap for this application.

I used an equivalent tool to lock in the cams. I set the crank to TDC by checking the piston position, and also double-checking that the keyway on the crank pulley was at 12 o'clock. (Never did find where the crank alignment pin would go - is it under the exhaust manifold?) If this was set wrong, would it cause a P0340, but run ok with the sensor unplugged?

Sounds about right. You let the exhaust cam sprocket float and then locked it down, right? One thing to try is to disconnect your alternator.

Paul Barrett wrote:

I moved the exhaust cam back and forth a bit with a wrench to make sure the VCT was at the neutral point before I installed the alignment tool, but I didn't actually loosen the sprocket bolt. Should I have?

Disconnect the alternator? Sure why not - otherwise I'm down to replacing the computer but I'm betting that's a waste of money.

I always loosen both sprockets. The procedure calls for it and the job seems to go faster. The crank stop hole is on the front of the engine towards the bell housing. Access is a little tight on some of them.

Just an FYI for anybody else who gets this code (and a thanks for the help).

I had to order the dang E20 torx socket - nobody around here stocks them.

But once I had that, I just floated both sprockets as suggested, re-aligned everything, torqued it all back down, and voila - no more P0340. In fact it now idles smoother than it has since we bought it (used).

The only thing that bugs me is that this code is supposed to mean a fault in the cam sensor circuit. I had expected if it was just the timing it'd be some other code. Oh well, live and learn.

Can u please tell me where that crankshaft sensor is located i also have a 99 escort zx2

Don't know but I found this, first link in a search