O2 Sensor Mess

[cruiser69]

I have an 2002 GT with a 3.8. I was checking my downstream O2 sensor and it is broken and the nut on the sensor is stripped. How to I get it out of the car now to replace it?

[GTP Dad]

Unfortunately you may have a long hard task ahead of you especially if the sensor is stripped. You may be able to get it out if you remove the exhaust system and file the sides of the sensor so you can get a wrench on it or you may be able to grab it with a pipe wrench to turn it out. Otherwise, if you cannot remove it you will need to cut the area of pipe where it is located and replace it. Since the sensor is located on the u-bend it will slightly increase performance if you remove this area of pipe and replace it with a straight piece of pipe. You can find replacements at several retailers and on e-bay. You will need a welder to replace it.

[Tech II]

Heat the pipe, not the sensor with a torch........then put a pipe wrench(small one, not much room there) on it at a right angle to the pipe.......then slam the handle with a 5# hammer.....I've got the hard ones out this way, but then again, I have a lift too......