hard pulse like shaking (backfire)

So I'm driving along today, going up a slight incline (this is the second time it's happened, same area too) and the car begins to shake or rock back and forth in a pulsing motion. The rpm's are bouncing up and down within 1000rpm's of the actual reading...

I'm think it's the crankshaft position sensor.

Also sometimes the car won't start, It just won't turn over ... and eventually just stops, Could this be related?

It will eventually start IF I tap the gas, and then it revs high and trys to die unless I continue tapping the gas for a few seconds...

Whenever it starts like that, the tach doesn't respond for about 30 seconds or so ... then it bounces up.

My vote is that sensor, if so -- is this a simple job?

Thanks

do a search on cam sensor, youre describing what problems most people have with a cam sensor going bad.
Phil

I had that problem once, it's most definetly can sensor. you can get one for about $30-$40

Yeah, that was the second guess -- is that hard to install?

1/4 ratchet
small extension
5.5mm socket

2-5 mins R&R

anyone mind scanning the pages for this sensor from their manual? I can't find mine

And thank you for the above post