Throttle Position Sensor: Description and Operation

PURPOSE
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) uses sensor input with other inputs to determine current operating conditions.

PCM adjusts air/fuel mixture (injector pulse width) and ignition timing.

OPERATION
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) supplies 5 volt sensor reference voltage.

Sensor is a variable resistor (potentiometer), whose resistance is dependent on the angle of the throttle blade (or throttle opening).

Output voltage ranges from approximately 1 Volt, (at idle position), to approximately 5 Volts, (at Wide Open Throttle).

NOTE: The following information is intended to be used in conjunction with the electrical diagrams.

CIRCUIT OPERATION
From the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), circuit K6 supplies 5 volts to the Throttle Position Sensor (TPS). Circuit K6 connects to cavity 6 of the PCM.

Circuit K22 delivers the TPS signal to the PCM. Circuit K22 connects to cavity 22 of the PCM.

The PCM provides a ground for the throttle position sensor signal (circuit K22) through circuit K4. Circuit K4 connects to cavity 4 of the PCM.