7.3 Throttle Position Sensor
What is Throttle Position sensor(TPS)?
The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS), also known as the Pedal Position Sensor(PPS), it keeps an eye on how much the throttle valve is opening in your engine, controlling the amount of air that comes in based on how hard you press the gas pedal. Throttle Position Sensors are attached to the fuel pedal assembly. When the pedal is depressed, the interior of the TPS/PPS turns, which in turn signals the engine to provide more fuel.
How Often is The Mobile Throttle Position Sensor Replacement?
The lifespan of Throttle Position Sensor can be 5 to 10 years. But in practise, the 2002 f350 7.3 throttle position sensor goes bad every 6 months or sooner due to the old car is not in good condition. Some owner of of the Ford F350 said that they have had to replace the PPS because it happens like this:
Once the pedal is depressed to a sufficient degree to operate the engine at approximately 1200 RPM, the signal to the engine drops to idle RPM. As I gradually depress the pedal, the engine speed rises from idle to 600, 800, 1000, idle, 1400, 1600, and so on. Please note that the RPMs in bold and underlined are approximate, as the truck lurches forward. On occasion, this lurching causes my foot on the pedal to move up and down, which in turn exacerbates the lurching. In approximately 50% of instances, the increase in RPMs is smooth from idle to 2200, with no lurching.
This also happens to 2000 f250 7.3 throttle position sensor as well as 99 f250 7.3 throttle position sensor.
What Symptoms That Indicate You Need A Throttle Position Sensor Replacement?
If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s time to replace your throttle position sensor:
- Check Engine Light: If the check engine light comes on and your mechanic diagnoses it as a TPS issue, it’s time for a replacement.
- Unstable Idling: If your engine’s idle speed is erratic or if it stalls unexpectedly, the TPS might be the culprit.
- Poor Acceleration: If your vehicle struggles to accelerate or accelerates inconsistently, it could be due to a faulty TPS.
- Sudden Surges: If your car surges forward suddenly without you pressing the gas pedal more, it’s a clear sign of a TPS problem.
- Difficulty Shifting Gears: Automatic transmissions rely on the TPS for smooth gear changes. If you notice difficulty shifting, it might be time to check the TPS.
- Inconsistent Engine Response: If your engine responds irregularly to accelerator input, the TPS could be malfunctioning.
- Decreased Fuel Efficiency: A faulty TPS can lead to poor fuel economy as the engine might not be receiving the correct mix of air and fuel.
To conclude, the 7.3 throttle position sensor is the brain of your gas pedal, translating your foot’s commands into precise signals for the engine. If you’re noticing any of the symptoms listed, don’t ignore them! A faulty TPS can influent the performance, fuel economy, and even safety. Get it checked out by a qualified mechanic to ensure smooth driving on the road