Suggestions changing O2's appreciated

[michael88]

Well, I did my homework today regarding code P0153, here on AF, and also on the internet. It may have fried my brain a bit (stoichiometric air-fuel ratio anyone?).

It appears, and this is wishful thinking of course, that something as simple as lousy fuel may have been activating this code. My Windstar sat for 'a while' before I bought it in April, and it had maybe 1/4 tank of fuel in it at that time. Also, I've been reading that present day ethanol and methanol additives attract water to the fuel tank. Anyone know about this? And is there a tried and true water eliminating additive anyone could recommend?

The plan, which has been changing quite a bit, is to test the offending sensor if the code comes up again (eight days now, no problems). I'll need to figure out how exactly to 'backprobe' the sensor. Haynes just says 'do it', but hopefully someone here has left some guidelines. I understand that you can fry a sensor by testing it the wrong way.

Thanks for all your help everyone, it's very much appreciated.

Regards,
Michael

[wiswind]

I would run a tank or so of fuel with some Chevron Techron cleaner in the tank.
If the code does not come back, don't worry about it....may have been caused by the vehicle sitting, as you said.

[michael88]

Thanks wiswind, will do..

[michael88]

An update:

I followed wiswind's suggetion and put in Techron plus tried to run off the top half of the tank for around 250 miles, so far no more codes at all over more than three weeks, including the P0151 that I had previously every week or so.

I had bought a recently infrequently used Windstar, which may have caused the problem, plus junk in the fuel tank that gets used when fuel is low.

Whether or not this is fixed, and I'll post again if not,asking for help no doubt, I'd like to thank everyone who's helped me with this one. I've got a feeling this may have been a simple fix. We'll see.

Best regards to all who helped.

[michael88]

In previous message, I meant code P0153. Thanks all.