Parts for your 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero-Camshaft sensor

1998 Mitsubishi Pajero camshaft sensor — what’s fitted and why it matters

Based on factory documentation and reputable trade references — including the Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero V20 Series Factory Service Manual (1997–1999, Engine Electrical), Mitsubishi ASA parts catalogue data, and common workshop references such as Autodata and Haynes — a camshaft sensor is used on 1998 Pajero petrol V6 models (6G72 3.0L and 6G74 3.5L). On these engines, the cam signal is typically generated inside the distributor housing (a cam angle/CMP sensor integrated into the distributor). By contrast, most 1998 Pajero diesels (4M40 2.8TD and 4D56 2.5TD) do not use a standalone camshaft sensor, fuel and timing control rely on a crankshaft position signal and the electronically controlled injection pump’s internal timing feedback. That’s why searches for a separate CMP on the diesel often come up empty — it’s simply not part of that system’s design.

For the 1998 Pajero petrol V6, the camshaft sensor is the quiet achiever. It tells the ECU exactly where the cam is relative to the crank, so the engine can run true sequential fuel injection and fire the spark at the right moment. The result is crisp starting, smooth idle and decent economy on both urban and outback runs. If the CMP goes out of whack, the ECU can’t line up cylinder events properly, which can mean hard starting, a stall at idle, or a no-start on a cold morning under the carport.

Owners will often notice the check engine light with codes like P0340/P0341, a reluctance to rev, or the odd misfire under load. Because the sensor on these V6s usually lives inside the distributor, repairs can mean replacing the sensor module or, in many cases, the complete distributor if wear or heat has taken a toll.

Good servicing habits help the CMP live a long life:

• Keep oil leaks in check — oil inside the distributor contaminates the sensor and trigger wheel.
• Mind the timing belt intervals, a stretched or mis-timed belt can trigger false CMP/CKP correlation faults.
• Inspect the connector and loom under the bonnet for brittle insulation or greened pins.
• If removing the distributor, mark its position before loosening. After refit, set base timing to spec with a scan tool or timing procedure from the FSM.
• Use quality parts — cheap sensors can introduce jitter the ECU won’t like.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer: disconnect the battery, label leads, mark the distributor body/engine alignment, remove the cap and rotor, and swap the internal sensor if serviceable — otherwise fit a complete, quality distributor. Clear codes, perform an idle relearn if needed, and take it for a gentle shakedown. Done right, the old Paj will be back to smooth, reliable running across the kilometres.

Popular questions about the 1998 Mitsubishi Pajero camshaft sensor

Where is the camshaft sensor on a 1998 Pajero?

On petrol V6 models, the camshaft signal is generated inside the distributor assembly. You’ll find it at the rear/side of the engine, driven by the camshaft. Diesel variants (4M40/4D56) generally don’t have a separate camshaft sensor, they rely on crank sensing and the injection pump’s internal timing feedback.

What fault codes point to a bad camshaft sensor?

Common codes include P0340 (Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit) and P0341 (Camshaft Position Range/Performance). On a Pajero with a healthy crank sensor but a failing cam signal, you may also see correlation codes and experience hard starts or misfires, especially when hot.

Does the 2.8TD (4M40) Pajero use a camshaft sensor?

No separate CMP is used on most 1998 4M40 diesels. The ECU manages timing with the crankshaft sensor and the electronically controlled fuel pump’s internal timing/position feedback, which is why a standalone cam sensor isn’t listed in the diesel service sections or parts catalogues for that year.