How to Install a Throttle Position Sensor in an 87 Jeep 4.0

The engine control module (ECM) in your 1987 Jeep 4.0 model uses the throttle position sensor (TPS) to monitor throttle position at any given time during engine operation. This tells the computer how much engine power you need when driving. Without it, your Jeep 4.0 engine is not able to operate correctly. However, the TPS is very accessible. You can replace a failed throttle sensor in your Jeep in a few minutes using some basic tools.

Instructions

Removing the TPS

1

Detach the air intake tube that connects to the throttle body. The throttle body is the component on top of the intake manifold that directs air into the engine. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the intake tube. This will give you better access to the throttle position sensor.

2

Locate the TPS on one side of the throttle body. The TPS is a small, square component with rounded corners and an electrical connector on one side. It attaches to one side of the throttle body right in front of the throttle plates.

3

Unplug the electrical connector from the TPS.

4

Unfasten the two small screws that attach the TPS to the throttle body using a ratchet, short ratchet extension and socket.

5

Lift the TPS away from the throttle body just enough so that you can see how the tang on the shaft that connects to the throttle plate on the throttle body connects to the TPS mechanism. You will need to adjust the new TPS to the throttle tang during installation.

6

Make a note of the TPS mounting position and remove the sensor from the throttle body.

Installing the New TPS

7

Place the new TPS right in front of the throttle body in its mounting position. Rotate the TPS about 45 degrees clockwise and then install the sensor on the throttle body. This will allow the TPS correctly engage the tang on the throttle plate shaft.

8

Install the TPS on the throttle body and rotate the TPS counterclockwise to its installation position.

9

Fasten the two TPS mounting screws using the ratchet, short ratchet extension and socket. Tighten the two screws to 60 inch-pounds (7 Nm) using a torque wrench, short ratchet extension and socket.

10

Plug in the electrical connector to the new sensor.

11

Replace the air intake tube using the Phillips screwdriver.