NEED HELP with removing 02 sensor

[NEALD]

I posted this over on b2corral with no responses, so I figured I with give it a shot here.

02 sensor is very tight space. I have an 89 b2 Auto 4wd. Having trouble trying to remove 02 sensor. Not much room to work, cannot really get any tools on it, trans and exhaust in the way. What was Ford thinking??? What is the correct procedure/tools needed? Thanks

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I feel your pain. Unfortunately it's been so long since I did mine that i don't remember what I used. I'm sure someone will have an answer soon,
Good luck,

Richard

 

[RonD]

Never changed O2 on B2, , but "if you can't raise the bridge, lower the river"

Can you disconnect exhaust pipes from manifolds and lower them to gain more clearance?

 

[NEALD]

Thanks guys. I hear you with lowering the exhaust, but the connections is so rusty there are no bolt heads left. Right now disconnecting pipes is not an option. Also is this o2 a 13/16 because 7/8 seems way too big?

 

[alwaysFlOoReD]

I'm not near my tools and stuff to check. Perhaps metric?
As far as access, perhaps you might sacrifice a wrench by cutting it down. I do believe that you can get the plug end thru the closed end of the wrench. Then work it down into position. i know i spent a couple hours getting mine out. It was rusted-welded to the bung.

Richard

 

[Jecsd1]

Try a dedicated O2 sensor socket or cut a slot in a 22mm wrench just enough to slip it over the wires. Usually works for me. Soak it with a good penetrating oil (not WD40) every day for a few days before you try.

 

[NEALD]

I have a 7/8(22mm) crows foot 02 socket, it is too big for the B2's 02 sensor body. Its about 1 size too big. Even if it did fit there is no room to maneuver it. I think I'm gunna try the open end method next.

 

[kunar]

AFAIK, it should be 7/8" hex, but it definitely could be corroded. step down a size till you find one that fits snug 21 and 22mm are both smaller than 7/8 but bigger than 13/16. might also try getting it hot (just run the engine) and then get some penetrating oil on it. it will probably come out easier when stuff is hot, but it'll be scary working around the hot exhaust pipes.

 

[enjr44]

I think it is metric. And, 22 mm equals 0.866 inches. This is smaller than 7/8 inches (0.875 inches).

 

[RonD]

As far as loosening it, you can heat up area around it with a torch or just warm up the engine, then spray O2 sensor only with compressed air or........whatever, to cool just the sensor.
That will often break threads free.

Hot metal expands, Cold metal contracts

 

[NEALD]

That's some good ideas. Hopefully I get to it this weekend. I have to take care of my rear sill repair, which is 1st on my priority list. Then shocks and brakes

 

[darken]

o2 sensor

Hi, Just Changed Mine On 86 BII,
You Need A O2 Sensor Socket, I Belive It's 22mm.
Has A Hole In The Side To Put The Wires Through.
Very Hard To Get The Racket On. Once You Break It Loose, It Should UN-Screw By Hand Easily.
You Might Be Able To Use A Box End Wrench On It.
Good Luck!

 

[NEALD]

I have the 7\8" sensor socket which is 22.2mm. I bought it a couple years ago and used it on our 01 Mazda tribute. Worked like a charm. I have to try again maybe next weekend, but it seemed too big for the bronco sensor. I have a new OEM sensor that I'm going to see how the socket fits it. Then I will pretty much know if the socket is too big or if the original sensor is just rusted away.