1999 Mazda Protege Crankshaft Position Sensor

BNCCAVERLY

MEMBER
1999 MAZDA PROTEGE
1.6L
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
180,000 MILES

While changing the water pump I broke a section off the crankshaft position sensor that bolts onto the block. I got a new sensor but while removing the bolt that goes into that spot the sensor bolts into the bolt head broke off of the bolt. The only way to get the remainder of the bolt out was to drill it. While drilling I broke the entire section where this bolt goes off the block. I am having the car towed to a shop, but what I'm wondering is if it's a part that can be replaced that this crankshaft position sensor bolts into or is it a part of the block that needs to be replaced?

Monday, February 2nd, 2015 AT 12:51 PM

2 Replies

TY ANDERSON

MECHANIC
719 POSTS

These sensors are extremely important and require specific mounting clearance to the tone wheel on the crankshaft. I don't know if there is room else where to drill and tap a new hole for the sensor?
I'm not able to find any specific photos showing where this sensor is mounted to.
If this sensor is bolted to the oil pan then you could replace the oil pan.
If the sensor is bolted to the engine block this would be worst case because if the mounting area broke off then a new engine is probably needed. Because I'm not able to find any specific videos or photos showing where this sensor is mounted I can't tell for sure.
There may be possible repair verses replacement options but it doesn't sound good.

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Monday, February 2nd, 2015 AT 7:21 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
54,137 POSTS

Unfortunately it looks like the bolt is in the engine block itself so care will need to be taken before drilling the bolt out. Please go over this video to see the best way to remove the broken bolt. It is for an exhaust manifold but the concept is the same.

https://youtu.be/py-rIWATchY?si=3-XRP09JeozTkGK-

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