this is so frusterating..according to Haynes im having a lean fuel mixture problem so its not the MAF ::sigh of relief::, guess thats what explains my high HC and CO% i got at inspections yesterday. i dunno its still strange that i never pulled this code since ive had the car and my emissions stuff was hooked up totally wrong before..thinking my O2 sensor took a dump or somthin lol. i just hope i dont burn myself changing it on this car, like i did with my old z28 a few mos ago left a nasty scar on my hand

 

If the oxygen sensor hasn't been replaced recently, it might be a good idea. The normal failure mode of an oxygen sensor is a degrading signal. As the signal weakens, the ECM will compensate by enriching the fuel mixture until the signal is at an acceptable level. The sensor and ECM are satisfied, but in the real world the mixture is rich. This will continue until the sensor can no longer develop an acceptable signal, and the ECM will set the error code. If allowed to continue, you would probably eventually get a '13' error code for a failed oxygen sensor.

I'm not sure which of your cars this is, but on the 305 TPI is fairly easy to change the sensor from either the top or bottom side. The 173 may be a little different - I'm not sure.

There are a lot of other possible causes and contributing factors to generate a code '44', but a functioning, reliable oxygen sensor is critical.

 

What about a code 45 on the same type of engine? (see signature please)

Thanks!