Questions about O2 Sensors, KKN, and Mufflers

[jpoprock]

I'm purchasing a KKN Intake filter this week, plus a Flowmaster muffler for my 02 Explorer LTD with 86K miles. My goal is just to give my Explorer just a bit of performance boost, but nothing major. I like the sound of the muffler. I just run it on the street with normal use. I'll be holding on to this vehicle for a long time, so I figured why not.

Newbie Question: Is a KKN filter the same thing as a FIPK? I get confused when reading about Cold air intakes, and Fuel Injection Perf Kits. I think they are the same thing no?

I've heard that replacing the O2 Sensors is never a bad idea. But I don't know how to really, or where they are even located! I'm a total novice. Where can one order these sensors? Are they easy to install? Does my computer need calibrated after doing so? Should I have the dealer do it? Do I ever NEED it? I get about 17-18MPG average city/hwy combined and I'm in AWD all the time unfortunately!

It would be great to get just a kiss more gas mileage, but if I can't then I can't. I've read thru some of that "Quest for 30mpg thread" and I'm still not sure what that dude is doing to get that kind of mileage? It's like he's got some kind of freak Explorer or something. He never really spells out just what he has under the hood to get that, unless I haven't gotten deep enuff into the thread?

Anyway... Some advise would be welcome!

Thanks!
Jason

 

[jbking]

A Chilton's manual is a lifesaver. It's not very good for helping you diagnose a problem but after the experts on this site tell you what you need to do, the Chilton's will help you do it. Lots of pictures to show you where stuff is.

Shop wanted to charge me over $1000 to replace both front wheel hub assemblies. Bought the Chilton's manual for $18 and saw how it easy it was to do myself. Replaced both hubs in less than an hour and bought the parts from the dealer for a little under $350.

 

[trucku]

I have 4 O2 sensors on my V6, 2 on each side. 2 forward and 2 behind. Some sites show the same O2 sensors for all 4,but I called and my Ford center says they spec 2 different O2 for front and back pairs.
You can buy and O2 socket and take them out relatively easy. I would first soak them with a penetrating spray few hours before.
I have been searching myself for some. Rockauto.com has pretty good prices. Ebay has lots of O2s for as cheap as $35, but you need to know what your vehicle needs. I don't know much about O2 sensors or how cross compatible they are. I am going to change all 4 as soon as I can. I figure if you take your truck to the dealer and they can't find why your mileage has gone down they will charge upwards of $100 for a diag. So I will just go change them for a little more and take them out of the equation. No calibration is needed. Just unplug your negative battery cable while your doing it. By the time you are done with all four, your computer would have cleared and ready for re-learning. Just connect the battery and start'er up. Don't go throttle or start revving the truck. Let idle for 15 minutes (believe i read that duration someplace here). Drive normally.

+1 on the manual...a MUST!