Plug on the O2 Sensor- PITA

[98 EddieB]

To get at the O2 sensor plug On a 98 4.0 SOHC, pre cat, drivers side do I have to remove the console to easily un-plug the sensor?
I cannot seem to get my hand between firewall and back of motor to disconnect the plug. Reading through the forum it seems this is way to do it on a V8.
Or is it just easier to splice, solder and heat shrink the wires to the new sensor and leave existing plug as is?
Thanks

 

[Blee1099]

Going thru the console would probably be the easiest.. the access panel is there for a purpose..

 

[ARTURPOLAND]

what kind of access panel are you talking about ?? I am nearly sure I don't have one in my cabin /??

 

[98 EddieB]

The O2 plug that I am trying to get at is in front of firewall and on top of transmission bell housing, I can just reach it with my hand behind the engine but cannot un-plug it, cannot get leverage on plug. Going through the console panel would seem to be well aft of plug location unless there is an access panel on firewall.

 

[Turdle]

what kind of access panel are you talking about ?? I am nearly sure I don't have one in my cabin /??

If you remove the center console, and roll carpet back a bit, there is an access panel on the transmission hump. This is the best way to access the 02 sensor connectors.

 

[ARTURPOLAND]

thanks, I am going to look for it as I have a problem with O2 sensors as well

 

[98 EddieB]

Problem solved, I found a way to get the plug without taking out the console. I removed left tire and took out 2 of the Xmas clips that hold the soft splash shield in place and was able to reach up between back of engine and firewall to un do the plug for the O2 sensor. If the drivers side pre-cat sensor needs replacing on a 98 -4.0 SOHC this is an easy way to get at the plug.