Oxygen Sensor
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New User
Joined: Oct 2004
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Oxygen Sensor
I have an 86 ranger 2.9 4wd. I have been having problems with it when I take it on the interstate. It will run fine for about 2-3 miles on the interstate then starts missing and I have to slow the speed down, if I try to go back up to the speed limit it doesn't like it. I did some reading and thought it could possibly be the Oxygen Sensor, because the person that had it before me never changed it so I am thinking it has never been changed. The problem is it is rusted and cannot break it loose to put the new one in. I bought a special socket from NAPA for it it fits on but when I start turning it slips off the bolt so there is no way for me to get a could grip on it to break it loose. I did spray with with lubricant and let it sit overnight and it still didn't work. Someone suggested using a torch and heat the pipe up then try it, but I don't know if it work. I need to get it changed to see if it will fix my problems because the gas milage is bad also. What else should I check on it for this problem? The spark plugs, wires, and distributor cap was changed by the other owner so they are new. Any help would be helpful.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 9,748
Likes: 16
From: Connecticut
Probably a good idea to change the 02 sensor, but I doubt it's causing the missing at high RPMs. Sounds more like a fuel starvation issue. Might want to check the fuel pressure.
When's the last time the fuel filter was changed?
When's the last time the fuel filter was changed?
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 125
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From: Tavistock, Ontario
If you dont have torches you could try it after a long drive, the normal heat will help. Not as good as torches but should still expand the pipe a little. I think i just used vise- grips and a hammer to get mine out, but i cant sat for sure it was a while ago.
It almost sounds like it's not getting enough fuel.That could be because of a bad sensor or the fuel system itself. Try doing a fuel pressure test your pump could be getting weak or there could be a tiny leak that only shows up when your demanding more fuel than normal, like on the highway. The cheapest and easiest thing is the fuel filter, try changing it first and see if it helps.
It almost sounds like it's not getting enough fuel.That could be because of a bad sensor or the fuel system itself. Try doing a fuel pressure test your pump could be getting weak or there could be a tiny leak that only shows up when your demanding more fuel than normal, like on the highway. The cheapest and easiest thing is the fuel filter, try changing it first and see if it helps.
Elder User
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 573
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fuel but if the original o2 change it. the offset socket worked best for me. auto zone has a set of 3 that u can buy and bring back for refund. the offset is the 1 with the 3/8 ratchet opening on the side of the socket. fuel regulator could be going out too.
Postmaster
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 4,516
Likes: 1
From: SoCal
About a year ago I changed the O-2 on my 87 2.9 only because it had 220 K miles on it, The truck ran the same before & after the swap. So in the future i will only change it if it gives me a "slow response" trouble code. Have you taken a couple of minutes to check for any trouble codes? As mentioned it could also be a fuel problem. Also it could'nt hurt to hook up a vacuum gauge & test for a clooged cat.
New User
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 6
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funny, I just did post on this very subject, the o2 sensor cured mine. What I did was just break off the top of the old o2 sensor just above the nut fitting, and use a 1/2 in. drive strong arm with a 7/8 in. socket. took mine right out and I had it changed in 15 minutes. Hope it works for you.
Last edited by geno77; Oct 31, 2004 at 05:21 PM.
