1996 CPS question

[sdspearo]

So apparently sometime in 1996 models the CPS connector changed from an oval shape with round pins to a rectangular shape with flat pins.* Did the actual sensor change as well?* Pics of each look similar except for an extra hole on the mounting bracket.**

My '96 has the rectangular connector and I'm trying to source a Mopar/OEM spare.* Every p/n search for this year shows the CPS with the oval connector.* The CPS for a '97 shows the rectangular connector I'm looking for...if the sensor is the same I should be good to go but trying to verify first before springing for a $90 spare that may not work when needed.

Mopar CPS with oval connector... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006EFUDV6/?coliid=IIG72BJX40SQJ&colid=1X5UKNQA4CBR2&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

Mopar CPS with rectangular connector... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006EFUF2I/?coliid=I3FLTOQN2ZVADL&colid=1X5UKNQA4CBR2&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

 

[Tim_MN]

1996 was the bastard year when Jeep changed from OBD-I to OBD-II, in stages, during production. I have never owned one, but some 1996 Cherokee owners report having to ask the parts guys to pull a 95 and 97 OBD part for physical comparison to what is on the engine. A CPS with the correct connector should have the correct sensor on the other end.

 

[Heavyopp]

I just looked at my 96 -- I also have the newer rectangular connector -- I am of no help with the original question but will be following along for the results -- I'll get a look at my 2000 tomorrow and see if the connector is the same as the 96

I also have a 97 parts donor rig -- I did run the 97 CPS in the 2000 for a few weeks when my 2000 cps decided to quit -- I can confirm that the 97 will work in a 2000

my guess is that if the plugs are the same it will work but that is just a guess


So just did a little digging -- Rock auto says it's the same part from 94 -2000 -- Now I don't think thats right but stands to reason that a 96 with the rectangular connector should be able to use the later years

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog...0314,ignition,crankshaft+position+sensor,7196

 

[Runnin'OnEmpty]

My 96 has the older style oval connector, and a build date of 4-96. (April)

From all I can gather, the rectangular plugs are identified as being
"Updated OBD II plugs". The sensors themselves should be identical.

Mine is both OBD I and II, with an OBD port under the steering wheel.

 

[sdspearo]

Thanks for confirming my thoughts. I figured the sensors were the same but wasn't 100% sure.