I've read several posts about changing the Oil P2 sending unit, and even the Chilton manual says a "special" socket can be used to remove the unit. However, it looks as though it could be removed with the right basic hand-tools. Has anyone actually changed one without the "special" socket?

 

I've remove the entire oil filter adaptor w/out using any special tools. You just need a big enough socket for it. I had to brake out my 1/2 sockets for the job.

 

I have 3 different OIL FILTER wrenches. None of which could be used to remove the oil pressure sending unit.
I was asking about the oil pressure sending unit.
Is it necessary to purchase the "special" removal socket?

 

There's two spots ya can get a wrench on it.
Both large, like 17 or 19mm.
I have to remove/replace gasket on my oil filter housing as I've developed a leak there.
It's not fun but, can be done. Try from top & try from below.

 

I removed both pressure sending units with just basic hand tools. Once you remove the wiring, they just unscrew, so just use a wrench. If I remember correctly I think I used a crescent wrench to loosen it, then just unscrewed it by hand.

 

When i replaced mine i removed the oil filter and used a cressent wrench on it got it loose and un screwed it by hand.

 

Yep, I used a large adjustable wrench on it, and it came out. Then I threaded my mechanic gauge fitting in, in it's place. The deal is that the sensor doesn't have the usual bolt head you'd expect, and since it's "large", normal sockets don't fit. That's all. Try to do it when the car's a little warm so it'll move easier on you. And remember, never pusssssh or pulllll on a wrench, try to give it quick hard pushes or yanks, this decreases any side-loading that could lead to a stripped fastener.

 

Thanks all. I'll drop by the parts store today. The lower sending unit, drivers side beneath exhaust manifold, is leaking slightly. Suspect the digphram has failed.

 

I actually loosened mine with a pair of vise grips. Not the most ideal thing to use, but it worked. Easy job to do. I actually have replaced that twice in 2 years. The autozone one went bad the first week. The one from the dealer is still going.

 

I did the same thing except with my IAC, and I wouldn't advise it. I was just like "oh, here's a pair of channel locks, those'll work" Now my IAC looks all chewed up and I'm regretting that I did it that way.

 

how do you loosen you iac with a pair of vise grips? Mine has 2 screws holding it in. Is a 2.8 verson different?

 

Here's what's in mine.

 

I used the large adjustable (15") wrench on that IAC, too! It's a btch, tho, you can only get a little bite with the wrench. And yep, 9D1, the 85-89 2.8's look like Joe's, they screw in... you 3.1 guys have the screws and a flange, right?

 

So that's what it looks like clean
Brake cleaner does wonders on carbon build up tho.
Yep, spray at the tip, away from innards.

 

tom, yeah we have a flange and 2 screws. Mine is so messed up right now. Waiting for a new GM one to come in. 89 frickin dollars for a new one.

 

Think of it as the charge for "checking under the hood" by a mechanic.