Decided to replace Oxygen sensors on my C5, because it's over 50,000 miles.
As some know, in the garage, with car up on jackstands, makes some jobs awkward. The reach is often difficult while laying on the garage floor as opposed to standing up if you can get the car up on a lift, especially also things are in shadows if you can't get a light in the right spot.

I have to two O2 sensor sockets most have, but couldn't get a ratchet handle on them, very good. Quit for the day, and during the evening, I found this 22mm Oxygen sensor wrench with pivoting head on Amazon, and ordered it.

This thing (wrench) seems 'to have been made' for changing front sensors on C5 Corvette. Slid in easily over the sensor (slot for wires). And pivoting head made it easy to loosen the sensor with no problems, at any angle. Turned this job into a easy two or 3 minutes removal of the sensor on each side (not counting raising the car of course).

Putting in the new ones and snugging them down to about 30 lbs. torque was also easy with this tool. Takes a few minutes more for the wiring harness clip. But not bad at all.
I'm so glad I found this, and wanted to share it with others, who might benefit like me.

If you want to make this job very very easy, this wrench (on sale right now for $16.40 on Amazon) is well worth it.
I'm replacing the rear sensors next, and expect the same ease of removal for them. The pivoting head on this wrench allows an infinity (almost) of angles of approach to the task.
I did spray the sensors with pb blaster the night before, as well. But they did not seem rusted on, at all.

Hope this can help some home diy guys, like me, with this now simple task.
Don

link to amazon for wrench:


Neiko Tools USA O2 Oxygen Sensor Flex Head Wrench
by Neiko
39 customer reviews
List Price: $42.99
Price: $16.40 & FREE Shipping on orders over $35. Details
You Save: $26.59 (62%)

 

The tool looks good, well made and inexpensive.. my only question would be, why would you replace a perfectly good O2 sensor?? they are either good or bad, with out receiving a code , there would be no reason to change them just for the sake of change..

 

I dont mess with O2 sensors often but for 16 bucks I will sign up for a cool new tool to add to my collection! I just hope it doesn't turn into $50 by the time I get it to Canada

 

Bill,
I did have the codes. Also for check valve right (passenger) side. They are next. Going to relocate the check valve on pass side.
Instead of changing one sensor, I"m changing them all.
Don

 

Just ordered one, thanks for the post.

 

OK... as long as you are up in the air.. why not.. I thought you were changing them for the sake of change.
Question answered !

 

Great tip. Mine was so stuck when I changed it I had to torch it to break it loose Then a Crescent wrench did the rest.

 

Just ordered mine.....For $20 buck why not !

 

Did you change the 02's as a result of P1416 to hopefully cure that issue? Did changing the 02's work or did you end up having to change the check valve anyway?

 

I have the same tools. Great to have!