Seized oxygen sensor

[pjnats]

Greetings all! I haven't posted for a while, but need to tap in to the expertise that has been so helpful in the past. I'm attempting to replace my O2 sensor, I have a feeling it's never been replaced (70,457 mi.), and it won't budge. I've been dousing it with Rust Eater for the last several days, but all that's happening is that the edges are becoming rounded on the hex nut. Any tried and true methods that can get me back on the road? The weather is fine, and I'm down on my luck!

[kilrwail]

Try removing it with a 6-point socket, when it's hot.

[pjnats]

I've been using a six point socket designed for this application. I just tried driving the girl to heat up the manifold to see if that helps, and she won't run! I must have damaged the original sensor attempting to remove it. Situation normal...

[kilrwail]

The standard O2 sensor wrench is open on one side to allow you to slip it over the wire. Because of that, it twists open under extreme load. I suggest breaking off the wire and top part of the sensor and using a fully-closed standard 6-point socket. You can't be any worse off than you are by breaking it. And I'd use a propane torch to heat up the manifold thoroughly, in combination with the penetrant. You might need a breaker bar or pipe extension on your socket wrench, but it will come off. Good luck!

[azygoustoyou]

pjnats,
it sounds like you have my luck. The saying is, " if it can happen, it happens to me!"

[pjnats]

Oops! Forgot to re-connect the cable to the AFM. I'm sure someone would have told me to re-check my connections, as the car should have started despite a bad sensor. Anyway, off for a drive to heat up that manifold. Hopefully, good news later.

[jfrawley]

I second Kilrwail's suggestion of a breaker bar and a closed 6 point wrench. Those two things along with a half a can of P B Blaster and mine finally gave way with nice steady pressure applied. And when you get it out don't forget a good coat of anti-seize on the new one. Good luck.

[pope]

I have an air gun that does 650lbs. in reverse. I dont know the word "stuck".

[pjnats]

Late report here. First of all, thank you for all the good advice. Secondly, I finally got the old sensor off but not without another problem. The threads in the manifold are stripped, therefore I cannot screw the new sensor in. Since I don't have a tap and die set, I'm thinking I'm going to call my mechanic in the morning and see if he can finish the job. I hate to punt at this point, but after spending so much time on such a seemingly small job, I don't want to "screw" it up any further. I'll let you know how the saga end. Night all.

[narfire]

Pope.. You must be quick on your feet when the car starts spinning under you when using that air wrench

[azygoustoyou]

650 lb air gun. What are you working on? Aircraft. I wish I had the compressor that would supply the air for that thing.