318 MAX fuel economy builds?

One other thing that happened to my van that had the millage up to 16 mpg. I was chasing a problem with the engine not running right, changed every part at least twice. It would buck jump under the slightest hill climb, regular hill no problem, maybe a 2% grade. Well by chance I changed the crank sensor, bam ran like a top but then after that came the 12 mpg. Still trying to figure how that sensor caused that difference because it’s only picking up a signal when to fire. Any ideas guys? Can’t find that dang sensor to retry.
One thing that comes to mind is whether or not the replacement crank sensor is indexed to the crank in the same place.

If you want to play around with it you can slot the bolt holes in the crank sensor to move and it will advance(or retard) the timing signal that the computer sees.

If you choose to do this couple things to check- make sure whatever little paper cover on the end of the sensor is completely removed from the end. Also make sure the sensor isn't covered in oil.