Can someone please tell me what size wrench fits the front O2 sensors on my '97 F150? A 22mm seems loose. Thanks jse

 

7/8"
You might want to buy a cheap O2 socket. They make the job quite a bit easier, especially if you have a flex ratchet to fit on it.

 

Thanks. Is this a socket that only Ford sells or would Craftsman or Can Tire handle them? This socket is what the Haynes manual shows, it has a slot cut out of it? jse

 

Racerguy, I picked up the O2 socket at Can Tire.thanks again. Now for my next problem, I can get the socket on the O2 sensor but I don't think I can get a rachet on it. This one is on the passenger side of the truck, would it be better to just drop the exaust system down from the manifolds? It might give me a little more room to work with. Thanks for your time and patience. jse

 

If you can get a 7/8 wrench on it, it should come loose that way too. Just remember to put a good high temp anti-sieze on the threads when installing a new one!!!
Jimmy

 

Usually a flex ratchet will work. Sometimes if you go in from in the inner fender it's easier too.

 

I have tried the 7/8 wrench, I can't get a good enough bite with the open end. I've even bent the wrench to get a better fit. The one on the driver's side is pretty easy to get at, it's the one on the passenger side that is a bi-ch.

Racerguy, I haven't tried a flex ratchet yet. I did take off the front wheel and it does improve the access. I was hoping that you or someone reading this had actually removed this O2 sensor and could tell me how they did it. I may be missing something but right now I can't see how this job can be done with the exhaust system still in place.

 

I've done them before with a flex ratchet, going in through the inner fender.
It's not fun but can be done.
hey that rhymed
I find that getting the connector unplugged is the worst part of the job usually.

 

Well right now I am willing to forego the fun and settle for possible.
One more question, am I doing any harm by driving it with the bad O2 sensor? Plugs or electronics, anything? I'll let you know how it goes thanks jse

 

Unless you drive it for a very long time you shouldn't hurt anything. Eventually you could possibly damage the catalytic convertor but that's pretty unlikely too.

 

Racerguy! Just got finished puting the new O2 sensor in. You were right with the flex ratchet and O2 sensor socket the job is not too bad. Removing the trans dipstick tube helped as well. Thanks again truck seems good so far (on the driveway) hope it stays that way! JohnE