Aerostar oxygen sensor replacement.

[joshhemming]

My 93 3.0L has 170,000 miles and to the best of my knowledge has never had the O2 Sensor replaced (I acquired the van at 90K). No warning lights yet but it seems my overall MPG is down a couple. I need to do some work under the van soon anyway so this would be a good time to replace it.

AutoZone lists two Bosch sensors (part #s 15719 and 15717) for my van. Each claims to be "exact fit" but one lists its overall length at 21.8" while the other one is 15.4". They obviously can't both be exact fits. Any idea which one I really need?

Will the sensor usually come out with an adjustable wrench or do I need one of those well deep sockets with the slot cut out to accomodate the wiring harness? Do the threads need to be coated with anything?

 

[BrooklynBay]

It might be a good idea to measure the wiring harness before you purchase it. Sometimes it's necessary to heat the exhaust with a blow torch before removing it if it's seized in place. You should coat the threads with anti seize compound prior to installation. Some brands include a small package that's just enough for the job. A special socket or the closed end of a box wrench should work. You could even use a plumbing wrench if you need more leverage when removing the old part. Check this thread for more information: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=259038

 

[joshhemming]

Update: I ordered a new Bosch 15716 sensor online through Ebay for $29.00 shipped, from a company in Ogden, UT. It has a short cable, about 10" which matches the original perfectly.

A long-handled 22mm combination wrench and a little PB Blaster was all I needed to remove the sensor.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Thanks for the update. Always remember to use anti seize compound on the threads as previously suggested.

 

[joshhemming]

Good point. Bosch comes with 3 dabs of gray anti-sieze already applied to the threads. Not sure about the other sensor brands.