I have a 1996 2.3 ford ranger sohc. I have been wanting to replace the camshaft with a junkyard cam out of an older mustang or ranger. The big question is about the cam position sensor. The older rangers and mustangs didn't have a cam position sensor, where mine does..Where does the sensor read? Is it reading markings on the cam itself or the cam pulley. I plan on only changing the cam with a hotter one and the cam gear so I can adjust timing.
If you have any info please let me know.

 

CPS(cam position sensor) on the 2.3l/2.5l Lima engine actually reads the AUX gear(oil pump drive gear), not the cam or cam gear.

AUX gear is the same size as Cam gear and both are timed to each other and Crank gear with timing belt.
So reading AUX gear position is the same as reading Cam gear position.

Truck cam will have more torque and less horse power, car cam will be the opposite, less torque more HP, just FYI

 

So does this mean that I can change out for any cam? I don't need to worry about the cam position sensor? And IV heard about trading for a 89 or older ranger or getting one from a mustang. Which would I want? I want more bottom end and I also would like the sound that a larger cam would give. IV read about combing my rangers arms with the mustangs/ older rangers cam, which gives a larger valve lift. Any opinions on this?

 

Yes, it means you can change the cam without concern for CPS, assuming you time engine correctly when re-installing the belt.

Have a read here on Ford 2.3l Lima engine Cams: 2.3L Camshaft Selection - Route 66 Hot Rod High

 

Will read. And thanks!