RussB

My 1988 5000CSTQ refused to restart last night after sitting for ten minutes. I determined that there was no spark, coil had power, but no signal from the ECU to the coil. I allowed the engine to cool and it started immediately and ran fine. Cold start today was fine. My diagnosis: the crank position sensor is failing.

Since both the crank position and crank speed sensors are right next to each other and both appear to be the originals, I should probably replace both at the same time. The part numbers are

crank speed sensor: "034 905 381 A" grey in color
crank position sensor: "034 905 381" black in color

According to previous posts, they are identical except for color.

It appears that the two genuine Bosch sensors will cost me over $300(!) for both if purchased through regular vendors.

A Google search of the part numbers reveals that there are vendors who sell non-branded aftermarket sensors for $40 each. I'm tempted to try them, but would like to hear from you guys first. What do you think -- is it it worth trying the non-branded aftermarket sensors? have you tried them?

Here's a typical vendor:

http://www.naautoparts.com/m8_view_i...34%20905%20381

V8QinNJ

I use a pair of "ebay" ones in my V8 - I've had them in since September without any problems.