O2 sensor removal
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 663
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From: Arvada CO
O2 sensor removal
I was taking a long look under the hood today getting my nerve up to install a set of headers myself in the near future. Before I start out by breaking the O2 sensor, I thought I would ask how to remove it. I see what looks like a brass/gold fitting into the exhaust manifold, but before I can get a deep socket on that there is a silver piece with wires above that has to be removed first. Does that silver piece just pull straight up with pliers?
Also, since I'm sure I'll remove the spark plugs, should I replace them with something better than stock for an 07 daily driver?
Suggestions on the best vendor (read lowest price) for American Racing Headers.
Also, since I'm sure I'll remove the spark plugs, should I replace them with something better than stock for an 07 daily driver?
Suggestions on the best vendor (read lowest price) for American Racing Headers.
Pro
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 667
Likes: 0
From: Marysville WA
After you unhook the O2 sensor connections (rear), you can unbolt the cat from the manifold and remove the cat from underneath. Then use an O2 sensor socket (specifically made with a slot in it for the wires) to remove the sensor. Cost is 10 bucks at AutoZone. After you remove the cats, remove the manifolds and then take the O2 sensors out of them to swap as well. Hope that helps.
Cheers,
Ray
Cheers,
Ray
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 663
Likes: 0
From: Arvada CO
After you unhook the O2 sensor connections (rear), you can unbolt the cat from the manifold and remove the cat from underneath. Then use an O2 sensor socket (specifically made with a slot in it for the wires) to remove the sensor. Cost is 10 bucks at AutoZone. After you remove the cats, remove the manifolds and then take the O2 sensors out of them to swap as well. Hope that helps.
Cheers,
Ray
Cheers,
Ray
Pro
Joined: May 2000
Posts: 610
Likes: 1
From: Midland Texas
St. Jude Donor '09-'11
Some times the O2 sensors in the manifolds are very tight. You may have to heat the manifold in the area of the sensor to get them loose. Use a big wrench/breakover on the O2 sensor socket.
The slotted socket is not as strong as the standard socket so you have to be careful if the socket spreads or slips before the sensor is loosened.
The slotted socket is not as strong as the standard socket so you have to be careful if the socket spreads or slips before the sensor is loosened.
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 218
Likes: 0
From: Panama City Beach Fl
Ahhh 
Don't pull on the o2 sensor wires with pliers. As stated follow th wire up and unclip the connector. The front sensor connectors are easy the rear a little more difficult. On the drivers side the connector is clipped to a bracket. Pushing up a half inch will free it and give you more slack. On the passenger side it is clipped with a plastic piece that you need to insert a pocket knife blade in to free it.
Removing the spark plugs is not necessary, just be careful when placing the headers.
Don't pull on the o2 sensor wires with pliers. As stated follow th wire up and unclip the connector. The front sensor connectors are easy the rear a little more difficult. On the drivers side the connector is clipped to a bracket. Pushing up a half inch will free it and give you more slack. On the passenger side it is clipped with a plastic piece that you need to insert a pocket knife blade in to free it. Removing the spark plugs is not necessary, just be careful when placing the headers.
Pro
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 667
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From: Marysville WA
Ray
Advanced
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 53
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From: southern Indiana
Best price I found was @ Lingenfelter. Paid around $1575 shipped. This includes AR long tubes 1 3/4, x-pipe with high flow cats, O2 extensions and gaskets. I reused my stock gaskets since they are steel.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 6,273
Likes: 225
From: Farmington CT
Cruise-In VII Veteran
you'll need an O2 sensor socket, about $10 from napa, slightly more form the Snapon truck
we've done a bunch of C6 AR installs
give us a call on the AR's $$, we are competitively priced and more importantly, offer tech help for the install
we've done a bunch of C6 AR installs
give us a call on the AR's $$, we are competitively priced and more importantly, offer tech help for the install
Last edited by SteveDoten; Aug 7, 2007 at 01:37 PM.
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Pro
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 667
Likes: 0
From: Marysville WA
Also, while you CAN use re-use the old gaskets, I chose to buy new ones from the dealer. Ran about 25 bucks for the two and was extra insurance for me to ensure no leaking. Plus they carry them in stock. I did not want to do it twice! Just my .02
Last edited by toro1966; Aug 7, 2007 at 01:08 PM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 752
Likes: 0
From: dallas tx
i didnt have a o2 socket...so i made one...use a close end wrench and cut a slit in it with a metal jig saw blade. This should give you enought room to slide the wire by...buy a cheap close end wrench at autozone...less than $5
