is there a way to test the sensor with a multimeter to see if it is bad. It is possible that I got a bad one from the jy I suppose.
It is possible you got a bad one from the wreckers, but here is how to check it using a multimeter. (Your multi-meter needs to have probes to do this!)
-NOTE: You will need another set of hands to be able to do this test.-
First off you will need to jack up one or bother of the rear wheels of the vehicle off the ground.(I did both but might have been able to do it with only one.
-NOTE:I can't stress enough that you must use a jack stand. The testing process most likely will cause a regular jack to either roll or topple over!-
Next make sure the VSS is connected to the vehicle as it would be in normal operation.
Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the 'ON' position (Do not start the engine!)
Now head to the VSS and take a good look at it. Where you see the little plastic tab that hold the wire hardness onto the sensor will be the side I will consider as UP (It may not face up, just using it as reference.)
if the clip side is considered up, here is the info on the three wires entering the harness from left to right.
- Left wire is the sensor signal output.
- Center wire is a ground.
- Right wire is the 5v supply
What you want to do is insert the positive probe from your multi-meter into the 5v supply in the back of the harness and ground the negative probe to any suitable ground on the vehicle. If the voltage isnt around 5v, trace the wiring and search for a short. If all is well, continue to next step.
Next you need to insert the positive probe from your multi-meter into the sensor signal output in the back of the harness and ground the negative probe to any suitable ground on the vehicle.
Now get your assistant to either block one of the raised back tires so it can not move (Or hold it if you have two assistants) and rotate the other tire by hand while you watch the multi-meter's output.
The reading should fluctuate between 0 and 5 volts as the tires is rotating. If this reading is found, then the sensor is functioning properly.
If not, replace the sensor and try again.
If even after installing a brand new sensor, the test is failing, replace the speedometer pinion gear. (It is what the sensor actually connects too.)
Hope this helps, if you have any other questions please feel free to let me know.