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o2 Sensor Replacement

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Old Jan 19, 2004 | 08:53 PM
  #1  
acerockola77's Avatar
acerockola77
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From: WA
o2 Sensor Replacement

I've helped replaced an O2 sensor in my buddy's truck before and it wasn't too bad, and I figure since I'm getting terrible gas mileage for the gears I have. I'm getting about 13 mpg with 2.73 which is BS. I have a 102 K on my truck and it dosen't look like its been replaced, so I figure it's time to replace it, so here's my questions.

What size of wrench should I remove it with?
Where's the best place to pick them up?
How do you tell if the truck is running lean or rich?

Thanks Guys
 
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Old Jan 19, 2004 | 09:40 PM
  #2  
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carpe_diem
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I have replaced them several times --- but never on Fords. (I am getting ready too, however)

My Chebby experience. Typically, you need 7/8" deep socket. Auto parts stores sell these special O2 sensor sockets -- forget them, they are junk. You will bend it. (At least I did)

Then need PB Blaster. Soak it overnight. I almost gave up without it, man it was tight.

Then need a 1/2" Breaker bar.

Cut the wire, fit the deep socket over it, and break it loose, then use a ratchet to finish the job. With the new one, use a open end wrench.

And,

I would not use after market sensors for anything!!!! I had a terrible exprerience with after market junk. Use only OEM. I cannot emphasize that strongly enough. Saving 5 'dollars' is not a good idea.

They seem to have OEM parts:

http://www.ford-auto-parts-dealer.com/
 
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Old Jan 19, 2004 | 09:56 PM
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acerockola77's Avatar
acerockola77
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From: WA
Thanks for the info carpe -

I was checking out this site: http://oxygensensors.com/ they claim that they are OEM, but the prices are incredbily low compared to anything I've seen aftermarket, so I'm not quite sure what to get, and ford-auto-parts-dealer didn't have one for the 4.9L.
 
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Old Jan 19, 2004 | 10:37 PM
  #4  
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carpe_diem
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On the aforementioned site, mine was quoted at $40. The last one I got for my chebby was around $29, also OEM of course. Bosch is not OEM as far as I know, and it is marginally cheaper, and I hear not as good.

I could change mine, only if I could find it. I need to get my truck on ramps.

P.S. 7/8" deep socket approximates to 22mm deep socket. That will work just the same if you have metric imports.

Whoops, another PS. Use anti-seize lubricant on the threads. I don't know how effective it is, but try it. I think it comes with the sensor. The sensor will have some on the threads already. and claim that it is not necessary. Just don't get any of that anti-seize stuff on the actual sensor, or it will damage it.
 

Last edited by carpe_diem; Jan 19, 2004 at 10:44 PM.
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Old Jan 19, 2004 | 11:10 PM
  #5  
EPNCSU2006's Avatar
EPNCSU2006
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From: Concord, NC
^ another thing about the anti-seize: be sure it is for O2 sensors, there is a difference. If it comes with the sensor, then it is ok. I've always been able to get mine out with a 7/8" box end wrench. It will just barely slip over the electrical connector.
 
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Old Jan 20, 2004 | 12:23 AM
  #6  
quaddriver's Avatar
quaddriver
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Joined: Jan 2004
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From: Cook Forest and Irwin PA
Originally posted by carpe_diem
I have replaced them several times --- but never on Fords. (I am getting ready too, however)

My Chebby experience. Typically, you need 7/8" deep socket. Auto parts stores sell these special O2 sensor sockets -- forget them, they are junk. You will bend it. (At least I did)

Then need PB Blaster. Soak it overnight. I almost gave up without it, man it was tight.

Then need a 1/2" Breaker bar.

Cut the wire, fit the deep socket over it, and break it loose, then use a ratchet to finish the job. With the new one, use a open end wrench.

And,

I would not use after market sensors for anything!!!! I had a terrible exprerience with after market junk. Use only OEM. I cannot emphasize that strongly enough. Saving 5 'dollars' is not a good idea.

They seem to have OEM parts:

http://www.ford-auto-parts-dealer.com/

use a proper socket or a crescent wrench from hell.

btw, bosch is OEM for both ford and GM, both outsource this part.
 
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