I was replacing engine mounts this weekend and noticed a connector that one side was crumbled to pieces exposing the conductors which were still mechanically connected to the other side of the connector. The connector assembly is mounted to a sheet metal bracket directly below the distributor cap. Any ideas what this connector is for? I tried to attach picture but was not successful.
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It takes a great deal of intelligence to recognize ones own ignorance

Sounds like the connector for the CPS. Follow the wire rearward.
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Keeping it running is better than buying new

Oops, crank position sensor? Also what problems would it cause if one of the conductors contacted the metal brkt?
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It takes a great deal of intelligence to recognize ones own ignorance

The crank position sensor is mounted on the back of the exhaust cam. If the CPS fails, it will be no start/no run. You may or may not get an error code.

Try to 'fix' it. At the very least, wrap it with electrical tape until the weather gets warmer and you can get to it easier. It is not fun removing the intercooler bits for a clean access.

Depending on the age of the CPS, it might be wise to have a new one in your parts bin?
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Keeping it running is better than buying new

I was planning on giving it a good coat of RTV until I replace the sensor or splice in another connector.
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It takes a great deal of intelligence to recognize ones own ignorance

Sounds like the cam position sensor. Its round with two screws that hold it into the engine block. Wire runs to a plug connector near distributor. Poor or no connection equals no start or unable to idle.

Hi Klaus,

I have to ask the question, what is CPS?
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It takes a great deal of intelligence to recognize ones own ignorance