Did a search and found nothing that answered my exact question.
For you guys out there that still have AC in your cars - any tips on replacing the O2 sensor? It needs so much torque but the clearance is very small with the AC lines running above the header. I spent a morning busting knuckles and I gave up. Any hints? I don’t really want to have to pull out the AC.
Steve
If you are running a stock header, then my tip won’t help, but if you are running an aftermarket 2-piece header, then unbolt the downpipe of the header from the cat and then unbolt it from the top part of the header, this should give you plenty of room to get the torque on it you need.
Where I have a 92 and its on the bottom of the car. I had a 90 back then and I had to take off the top half of the header cause the damn 02 was fused on it felt like. then I sprayed WD-40 from the inside and it came off like nothing.
You might try removing the ac line bracket and NUDGE them out of the way…
HTH
Ken
I’ve replaced mine on my 90 and my friends on a 91. On both I didn’t have to move the ac lines but you do need to get a ratchet with a long handle so you can get some torque on it. In order to keep the O2 socket from leaning side ways on you use a pry bar wedged between the block and the socket. This has saved me from stripping the nut on the O2 sensor twice now.
I found a solvent at Autozone that helps break down the corrosion on those stuck bolts. I let that soak for a little bit, like 5 min, and also at Autozone they will let you rent a o2 sensor socket. I found an old piece of pipe laying around that I used for a breaker bar, and after a few really short turns I got it out… hope that helped you
Thanks for all of the suggestions, guys.
Slacker I was trying your idea a bit but I can’t get the o2 socket on and straight no matter what I tried. I had my AC converted last year so I wonder if they moved a line and mine is now in a different spot. I wouldn’t think they would have to but you never know.
If I end up having to move the lines, I will probably take the opportunity to upgrade to a new header.
Steve
If you use an O2 Sensor socket like tallyteg90 said, you’ll get it off no problem. Liquid wrench doesn’t hurt either.
let your car run for like five min. b4 you take it off its easier to break loose when its hot.