pantera928

With the engine in the car, is it possible to remove the Hall sensor without removing the cam cover on the right side?
Does removing the cam cover make it more accessible?
Probably out there on this forum but as usual, my searches come up empty

Thanks

Michael Benno

Yes, it is tricky but you can do it. My suggestion is that you remove the engine hanger bracket on that side for additional clearance.

Use a 1/4" allen socket driver and a very long extension like 8"-10". This will allow you to access the bolts.

pantera928

Is it easier with the valve cover removed or about the same?
I have the engine hanger bracket removed already.

Thanks

jwbeck17

I was able to change it fairly quickly and easily once I got an extended ball-end allen bit.

Mrmerlin

To remove the cam cover you have to remove the hall sensor first.
reverse this for installation

jwbeck17

Here is the bit I used to get it removed and the new one installed easily. It was a “snap” . 🤣 (Please be careful not to snap the bolt! Mine came out correctly because I used the bit to create slight torque pressure on the bolt while using a screwdriver/ hammer combo to tap on the side of the bolt head which helps to break the rust freezing the bolt along with any PB blaster).

GEARWRENCH 3/8" Drive Long Ball End Hex Bit Socket, 4mm - 80442 https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B002YK7W...ing=UTF8&psc=1

worf928

On some you have to remove the Hall sensor before the cam cover.
On some you have to remove the cam cover before the Hall sensor.
On some order is independent.

I would never remove the cam cover to replace the Hall sensor unless it is case #2. The 18 gaskets you need for the cover add up.

Kevin in Atlanta

Yep, this is what I use along with a couple of 12" 3/8" extensions.

pantera928

Well, I have access and the tools but a 4mm just turns on the bolt head and a 5mm of course is too big. Tried a couple of non-metrics but could not find one that would work in either bolt. Doesn't look stripped or mangled but not sure what to do next with the motor in the car.
Sometimes I feel like I love this F>"%ing car and sometimes I feel like it loves F%$#ing me.

worf928

You can remove the plate to which the Hall sensor and cover are fastened... when you’re doing a timing belt job.

pantera928

True but I am not due for a timing belt job right now. Thanks

Michael Benno

Its it possible that someone replaced it with either a metric Torx drive or SEA size?

fossberry

A good ally would be a borescope camera you can plug in to your smartphone so at least you can check to see if it is a torx or a stripped allen bolt etc. They're just a handy thing to have when one of the prerequisites on fixing these cars is being a contortionist 😉

worf928

It is possible. But if not 4mm (IIRC) Alan Head then it's not OE.

pantera928

OE? On this car? LOL
The stories I could tell about non-OE done by previous owners would leave you rolling your eyes and/or rolling on the floor laughing