Two questions regarding O2 Sensor replacment on my 1991 Pontiac Trans Am.

1) How do you know when it is time to replace it other than when you recieve a code ? My car has 65K original miles.

2) How do you replace it ? Do you need any special tools ? This may sound strange but I want to keep it intact when removed ( I keep all the OEM parts) so I don't want to cut wires or break it off. Do I get to it from the top or from under the car ?

Thanks for input...

Chip

 

Ways to know : code will be set off ... gas milege will suck ...... the idle will be rough .. you take it out and it looks funky shades of black.

You can buy the special tool thats around 10 bucks that clips on to a socket wrech to remove the sensor.

Then you unplug the senor from the wire and plug the new one in. Its simple really. (just don't do it right after you just drove your car to buy it :nono: )
~Tim

 

no special tools required, mine is probably the same as everyone elses, and it looks to be about a 1 inch hex nut. Easy shmeesy.

 

3/4 inch if I remember correctly

 

7/8" wrench needed, or a 7/8" socket with the side cut off (called an oxygen sensor socket, duh). 60k is the interval for our cars, so you're overdue. Make sure the exhaust is warm when you pull it out, it will make things much easier. Also make sure the new one is sealed and has antiseize on it.

 

Its a pain in the *** to try to use an open ended wrench like some people will recomend. I tried, it just doesnt work. Go to autozone, and rent a O2 sensor socket. Also, let that thing soak up a bunch of Penetrating Fluid, nd get a breaker bar, it'll be somewhat rusted in place!

 

I hate o2 sensor sockets. Too flimsy. I cut off the wire and use a good old deep well socket for removal, but since you want to save your crusty old one (do you save your old oil?), you'll have to settle for the o2 sensor socket.

 

I'm with Jim. Either fold up the sensor lead and connector into the deep socket or cut the wire off.

When you get your supplies, don't forget a small jar of anti-seize compound. The amount supplied with the new sensor is never quite enough. Just keep the excess compound off the sensor tip.

As for the first reply, another way to determine if the sensor needs replacement is if you haven't already done so within the last 30-40,000 miles.