O2 Sensor Replacement

[williamigriffith]

I have an '03 Edge 3.0 Flex with some issues. I am hoping O2 sensors may clear things up. I have purchased O.E. replacement sensors, but it looks very tough to replace them from the top side of the engine, or the bottom side. It looks like it would be easier to drop the exhaust from the manifold. I have a slotted socket, but if my hand were small enough, I don't think there is sufficient clearance to get it on, not to mention that the protective sheaf on the wires looks like it might be wider than the slot.

Please respond if you have actually done this replacement, or if you have the relevant manual. I know that normally you should be able to do this from the top side, but . . .

Griff

 

[Earl43P]

I did mine from underneath, using a ratchet, extension and the slotted socket. The sheathing can be slid and bunched if necessary, mine had no problem sliding into the slot.

Once you break it loose, they run out without the tool.

 

[williamigriffith]

Question???

Earl43P, by chance, is your truck a flex fuel? If it is, I will work out this Chinese puzzle from underneath, but I must say that it looked impossible.

Griff

 

[Earl43P]

Yes, mine is Flexfuel.

I'm not trying to say it was easy. I may have even sworn at it.

Actually, now that I think about it (I do quite a few side jobs, so it gets hard to recall), the DS O2 was a PITA. The cab seam is right where your ratchet head needs to be and the extension wouldn't help on that one. I ended up beating the seam with a BFH and a chisel to get "just enough" clearance to get the ratchet head into the tool, but not fully engaged. Again, once it's broken loose, it'll spin right out by hand (both of mine did).

If I had to do it over, I think I'd trade that O2 tool for a Crow's foot for the DS. Even a dogbone would work better, but they aren't very common in the layman's toolbox.

I don't recall the PS being at all difficult.

 

[jameslouque9889]

I found it easier from the fenderwells. i just jacked up each side to give some more room above the tire or you can take them off. Passenger side was easy with a 3/8" breaker bar and a offset O2 sensor socket (oreillys $10). the drivers side was a pain but used the same tools. Now the down stream sensor was the easiest, all I used was a 7/8 comb. wrench.

hope this helps.

and mines a 02 flex fuel