Kubota P0342 – Engine Control Module (ECM): Loss of Camshaft Input Signal

The ECM relies on the camshaft position sensor signal to identify which cylinders are in the compression stroke, allowing it to properly time the fuel injection and ignition spark. The code is triggered by loss of feed voltage to the camshaft sensor, an open sensor ground, cam pulses without crank activity, or if the ECM cannot synchronize the cam and crank signals.

• WG1605
• WG1605-G-E3
• WG1605-L-E3
• WG1605-GL-E3
• WG1605-N-E3
• WG2503
• WG3800
• Toro machinery
• Ditch Witch SK1050
• Vermeer S925TX
• Snorkel lifts
• Powerboss sweepers

1. 1

   Inspect the wiring harness leading to the camshaft position sensor for open circuits, short circuits to ground, or physical damage.

2. 2

   Verify that the Cam+ and Cam- circuits are not pinned into the wrong connector terminal slots at the ECM or sensor harness.

3. 3

   Use a Digital Volt-Ohm Meter (DVOM) to verify that the sensor is receiving proper feed voltage from the ECM and that the sensor ground is not open.

4. 4

   Measure the resistance between the sensor terminals (normal specification for WG1605 is 470 to 530 Ω at -20 to 200 °C).

1. 1

   Verify the Code

   Turn the key ON (engine OFF) and connect a diagnostic scan tool (such as the EControls 4G Diagnostic Display Tool) to confirm P0342 / SPN 723 is active.

2. 2

   Examine the Circuit

   Disconnect the camshaft position sensor. Inspect the connector for corrosion, moisture, or pushed-back pins.

3. 3

   Test the Sensor

   Probe the sensor terminals with a DVOM to check the resistance (target: 470–530 Ω for WG1605).

4. 4

   Replace if Faulty

   If the wiring tests good but the sensor fails the resistance test (or fails to output a signal during cranking), remove the sensor mounting bolt and pull the sensor from the engine block/valve train.

5. 5

   Install New Sensor

   Insert the new OEM camshaft position sensor, secure the mounting hardware, and reconnect the wiring harness.

6. 6

   Clear and Verify

   Clear the DTCs using the diagnostic tool. Crank and run the engine to ensure the ECM successfully synchronizes the cam and crank signals and that the engine does not go into a power derate mode.