
ECU is a digital microprocessor computer. Data sensors
provide the ECU with engine operating information in varying
electrical signals. ECU calculates this information and corrects
air/fuel ratio, ignition timing, and emission control as needed to
maintain efficient engine operation. Other ECU output signals control
upshift indicator light (manual transmission only), ignition module
dwell and A/C clutch operation.
UPSHIFT INDICATOR
On vehicles equipped with a manual transmission, ECU
controls upshift indicator light. Indicator light is normally
illuminated when ignition is turned on without engine running.
Indicator light is turned off when engine is started.
Indicator light will be illuminated during engine operation
in response to engine load and speed. If transmission is not shifted,
ECU will turn light off after 3 to 5 seconds. A switch located on
transmission prevents indicator light from being illuminated when
transmission is shifted to highest gear.
DATA SENSORS & SWITCHES
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor
MAP sensor is located in engine compartment on firewall,
behind engine. MAP sensor monitors manifold vacuum via a vacuum line
from intake manifold to sensor.
MAP sensor supplies an electrical signal which keeps ECU
informed of manifold vacuum and barometric pressure conditions. This
information is combined with data supplied by other sensors to
determine correct air/fuel ratio.
Oxygen Sensor
Oxygen (O2) sensor is mounted in exhaust manifold where it
is exposed to exhaust gas flow. Its function is to monitor oxygen
content of exhaust gases and to supply ECU with a voltage signal
directly proportional to this content.
If oxygen content of exhaust gases is high (lean air/fuel
mixture), voltage signal to ECU is low. As oxygen content decreases
(mixture becomes richer), signal voltage increases.
In this way, ECU is kept constantly informed of air/fuel
ratio. ECU can then alter fuel injector "on" time, in response to
these signals, to obtain best air/fuel ratio of 14.7:1 under any
given operating conditions.
O2 sensor is equipped with a heating element that keeps
sensor at proper operating temperatures. Maintaining correct sensor
temperatures at all times guarantees a more accurate signal to ECU.
By using an O2 heater, fuel control system may also enter "closed
loop" operating mode sooner and maintain this mode, even during
periods of extended idle.
Temperature Sensors
There are 2 temperature sensors used on this system.
Manifold Air Temperature (MAT) sensor, mounted in intake manifold,
measures temperature of incoming air/fuel mixture and Coolant
Temperature Sensor (CTS), located on left side of cylinder block just
below the exhaust manifold, measures temperature of engine coolant.
Information provided by these 2 sensors to ECU allows ECU to
demand slightly richer air/fuel mixtures and higher idle speeds
during cold engine operation.
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
TPS is regulated by movement of throttle shaft. It is