Passenger Upper O2 Sensor

[mem7599]

How do I get to the upper O2 sensor located on the passenger side to replace it. I cannot reach the cable connection or fit my wrench adapter in the space.

 

[caldi55]

o2 sensor

the easiest way is to remove the tire and the splash guard, thats how i did it

 

[mem7599]

Thanks for the splash guard tip, I got the connector off the O2 sensor but I cant get the sensor itself out of the exhaust pipe, I will have to buy another wrench, the socket adapter doesnt fit due to obstructions. Should I not drive the vehicle with the sensor disconnected?

 

[Robert]

If you drive it with the connector disconnected, you will throw a CEL and it will likely drive anywere from "kind of odd" to "like crap". When I replaced all 4 of mine, I used an open end wrench on two of the sensors and the O2 Socket on the other two (can't remember which sensor required which tool though).

 

[mem7599]

Well your right about driving like oddly it smelled like it dumped too much gas, then it stalled out almost right away. I bought a 7/8 open ended wrench, I quickly tried it but the O2 is stuck. I will try spraying in WD40 tonight and tommorow, then give it another shot.

 

[gallows]

My Haynes manual for the '96 Explorer says the metal of the exhaust pipe expands and contracts such that you may not be able to remove an O2 sensor unless you run the engine for a couple of min. first. It also warns not to burn yourself on the pipe.

 

[kblackav8or]

When I am going to replace them and already have the new ones i often just cut off the wires and use a deep socket. Vise grips have also been used in the past. I just use an open end wrench on the new ones being very carefull with them.
Kevin

 

[mem7599]

Well I got both of the upper sensors out this weekend, what a difference, it runs quiter, quicker, smoother shifts better and idles evenly.