1992 Oxygen Sensor question - brand matter????

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Apr 27, 2009 | 02:10 PM

#21

onedef92

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From: Fort Knox, KY

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Quote:

Originally Posted by pcolt94

Recently I read an article about compounds that kill a O2 sensor. It talked about not using anti-seize compound on the sensor. It also said to use sealants on gaskets that were “safe for O2 sensors”. I don’t have any real data but something to consider.

The tube of anti-seize compound I'm looking at (NAPA brand) says it's safe to use on 02 sensors provided you don't allow the sensor end of the unit to come into contact with the compound.

I'm sure it would react badly under operating conditions and the resulting thermal-chemical reaction could damage the sensor.

So

I would either use the anti-seize supplied with the new sensor, OR make sure the aftermarket brand you have is OK to use as directed.

Apr 27, 2009 | 02:23 PM

#22

aklim

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From: Hartford WI

Quote:

Originally Posted by H P Bushrod

If I'm not mistaken, our LT1 sensors should last to 100,000 miles. The ealier O2 sensors ('84-'91) with the single wire last to about 50,000. I looked at my '93. Both sensors are the same. I'm from the old school...If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Is you car throwing any codes?

They throw a code when it gets too far out of whack. OTOH, just because it doesn't throw a code doesn't mean you don't have a lazy sensor.

Apr 28, 2009 | 10:33 AM

#23

onedef92

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From: Fort Knox, KY

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Quote:

Originally Posted by aklim

They throw a code when it gets too far out of whack. OTOH, just because it doesn't throw a code doesn't mean you don't have a lazy sensor.

This is where a data scan tool is a lifesaver. I was able to see in real time that my left sensor was operating at a lower rate of efficiency than my right one, and my car had 100,000 miles on it at the time.

But, no codes were being stored.

I replaced both at the same time for peace of mind's sake.

Apr 28, 2009 | 02:25 PM

#24

Randy93

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From: Sebastian Florida

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Quote:

Originally Posted by joshwilson3

I've read of people using throttle body cleaner to spray the vacuum hoses with the engine running. And if the car stumbles, then you have a vacuum leak. Might be easier that way since you don't have to look at every part of the hose since alot are hard to reach.

Soapy water is cheap and easy, I wouldn't want to spray any alcohol based spray on hoses or rubber fittings.

Apr 28, 2009 | 02:30 PM

#25

aklim

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From: Hartford WI

Quote:

Originally Posted by Randy93

Soapy water is cheap and easy, I wouldn't want to spray any alcohol based spray on hoses or rubber fittings.

How does soapy water work for diagnosing vacuum leaks? I know if there is a pressure leak, you can use soapy water but I have never used soapy water for vacuum leaks simply because it can be sucked in.