Exhaust help

[scuda11]

Hi guys, new here, and also not that mechanical. My truck - 1991 pickup-SR5 - 4WD. Exhaust just got REAL loud, and the exhaust was replaced about 6 months ago. Decided to take a look under myself and this is what I found. Can anyone help me?

Thanks in advance!
Scott

http://www.oceansedgewebdesign.com/temp/exhaust.jpg

[KimMG]

O2 sensor is hanging loose. If it fell out, there will be a hole in your exhaust system causing a lot of noise and an exhaust leak. Does your truck have an air pump? I noticed a pinched off air intake on the catalytic converter.

[scuda11]

Thanks for the reply! I am not sure about an air pump but I saw that as well. Is it a big deal to put the O2 sensor back or do I need to have it done?

Thanks again

[uibalnme]

You just need a new O2 sensor gasket, and then bolt it back in palce. I would just replace the old sensor though. It looks used up anyway. A new one would give a little bit better gas mileage too.

[scuda11]

Thanks, awesome info!

Appreciate it guys.

[KimMG]

No big deal provided whatever holds the sensor to the exhaust pipe is still there (studs, captive nuts, etc.). Use a little anti-sieze on the threads when you install it.

[legbreaker]

So, is it determined that the bolts rusted? or maybe fell out? I can't imagine that if it was left loose on accident by whoever worked on it, that o2 sensor would hang out over the hole for 6 months without making a sound up until now.

[scuda11]

They were rusted. I brought them back to the guy who did the exhaust and he fixed it up for me.

Thanks again to everyone in here for the help.