I bought a used 97 Protege. The engine was changed and I need to determine what year it is. Bought new crankshaft sensor for a 97, it didn't fit. Casting number is Z501 8-1. Please help. Thanks.

 

I hate that shi.te : "Who cares, leave it for the next sucker who buys the car!"
Well, I have created a work history for my car, of which I will include if I ever sell my car! Wish more people would do the same.
Previously I had a GMC Van and had to change the rear end. The 3:23 highway gears couldn't handle it (also had very wide wheels in back) so I put in an Eaton posi 3:73 rear end. It never ran so good! I also had a bigger MAF sensor and better intake. Those highway gears are useless and with a van it would just lag due to the poor aerodynamic front. To do this I had a Hypertech tuner which would allow me to re-program computer for the change in rear end gears. When I traded the Van in for my Mazda 6, the Hypertech went with the Van as well as a note of explanation.

Other than that, can't help you, sorry.

 

Sounds like it was the 1.5L Z5 engine from one of the mid-late 90's.