In this tutorial, I'll walk you through adjusting the TPS assembly, whether the switch is out of alignment or you've recently replaced the sensor.
NOTE: This tutorial applies only to the 1987-1991 2.0L Camry with a manual transaxle, which have the 3-wire TP sensor.
To adjust the 4-wire TPS (2.0L Camry with an automatic transaxle), see this tutorial:
Contents of this tutorial:
APPLIES TO: This tutorial applies to the following vehicles (with manual transaxle only):
- 2.0L Toyota Camry: 1997, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
If you need to test the throttle position sensor, check out this tutorial:
Adjusting The Throttle Position Sensor Assembly
If you need to remove and replace the throttle position sensor assembly, you'll need to adjust it to the correct specification before you bolt it down.
This is a pretty easy adjustment and in this section, I'll show you how to do it.
This is what you'll need to do:
- Turn the ignition switch to its Off position and make sure the TP sensor assembly is disconnected from its connector.
- Place your multimeter in Ohms mode.
- Loosen the TPS (so that it can be adjusted).
- Place a.020 In. (0.50 mm) feeler gauge between the throttle stop screw and the throttle lever and:
- Test continuity between terminal #3 and #4. Your multimeter should register continuity.
- If continuity does not exist, adjust the TPS sensor by rotating it until continuity exists.
- Slightly tighten the TPS screws.
- Place a.035 In. (0.90 mm) feeler gauge between the throttle stop screw and the throttle lever and:
- Test continuity between terminal #3 and #4. Your multimeter should register NO continuity.
- Repeat steps 3 and 5 to verify No Continuity and Continuity exist with the indicated feeler gauge thickness.
- Once the proper continuity specs have been verified, tighten the TP sensor assembly mounting bolts.
- Once you're done, recheck the continuities once more to make sure the TP sensor didn't move on you when you tightened the two bolts.
Location Of The Throttle Stop Screw
NOTE: To check and/or adjust the TPS assembly, you need to place a feeler gauge between the throttle stop screw and throttle lever. The orange arrow in the photo above points to this location.
The throttle stop screw is a small, adjustable screw on the throttle body of your 1987-1991 2.0L Toyota Camry. Its main function is to set the minimum position of the throttle plate when the gas pedal is fully released. This ensures a consistent idle by preventing the throttle plate from closing completely, which could cause the engine to stall.
When testing or adjusting the TPS, you'll need to create a precise gap between the throttle lever and the throttle stop screw. This is done by placing a feeler gauge between them. The gauge ensures the throttle plate is in the correct position for accurate TPS measurements or adjustments.
To help you locate the throttle stop screw on your Camry, refer to the image above. While the example shown is from a 3.0L V6 Camry, the throttle stop screw on your 1987-1991 2.0L Camry will look similar and serve the same purpose.
Where To Buy The TPS And Save
Probably, the best place to save on the purchase of a new TPS, for your 2.0L Toyota Camry, is online. Check out the following links. I think they'll save you a few bucks:
Not sure if the above TPS fits your particular 2.0L Toyota Camry? Don't worry, once you get to the site they'll make sure it fits by asking you the specifics of your particular Nissan vehicle. If it doesn't fit, they'll find you the right one.
More 2.0L Toyota Camry Tutorials
You can find a complete list of 2.0L Toyota Camry tutorials and wiring diagrams in this index:
Here's a sample of the tutorials you'll find there:
- How To Test The TPS (1987-1991 2.0L Toyota Camry).
- How To Test For A Blown Head Gasket (1987-1991 2.0L Toyota Camry).
- How To Test The Engine Compression (1987-1991 2.0L Toyota Camry).
- How To Test The MAF Sensor (1987-1991 2.0L Toyota Camry).
If this info saved the day, buy me a beer!
