Ok, I have no cat. This has been the fact since I got my car. The O2 sensor isn't where it should be. There is a small metal pipe running from the engine compartment to the side of the exhaust pipe under the passenger seat. Could this be it? Help please.

 

No, that's not it. That the AIR pipe that would run to the catalytic converter, if you still had it. Are you sure it's not where it should be? It can be hard to see sometimes from the top of the motor. It should be in the driver's side exhaust manifold, facing the front of the motor with 1 wire coming out of it, just above where the exhaust manifold and factory y-pipe meet.

 

Ah. That could be the problem. I was under the impression that it was behind the cat. I will find it now. Thanks. I'll let you know if I get it changed.

 

The AIR pipes (at least that is what I think those are) that run off the ehxaust manifold are in the way and I can't get it far enough off the ground to get it from the bottom. I will have to get another floor jack.
Another question: Can the AIR system be removed? I plan to get headers and an aftermarket y-pipe and I don't want the headache of all those little hoses and pipes. What will it do to the performance/operation of the motor?

 

Yes, you can remove the AIR system if you want. There is a tech article on how to do it, here's a link to it: https://www.thirdgen.org/newdesign/t...rpentine.shtml . A search for AIR, smog pump delete, etc. will give you all the info you could ever need on how to do it, it's been covered plenty of times.

If you live in a state with emissions, than it is probably not a good idea to delete it, since it is an emissions device. It won't add any performance and it won't affect the engine, computer, etc. without it.

 

I passed emissions without them, but there's really no need to remove it unless you want more room in the engine bay or when getting new headers.

 

Thanks. That is the main reason I am removing it: space. Those things take up alot of room; plus, they get on my nerves. I am also getting headers, so I will kill two birds with one stone.

What is the easiest way to get to the O2 sensor? Do I need to get it on a lift?

 

I can clearly see mine from looking into the engine bay from over the driver's side fender.

 

I used an o2 sensor socket and a few extensions to change mine.

 

I can see mine and everything, but I am having trouble getting the socket wrench around the wire to remove it. I guess I'll have to mess around to get it. The O2 sensor socket may help. Where can I get one?

 

You can find the o2 sensor socket in the special tools sections in auto parts stores or Sears. It's just a deep socket with a slot in the side so the wire/plug can stick out.

 

Ok. Thanks. If I get off work in time today, I will get one. That would be a big help.