Finally got 02 sensor out.

[Freakshow]

After 30 min struggling trying to get it out with the engine cold. I got the engine warm and went to work. I used an adjustable wrench instead of vice grips. I was lucky mine wasn't too much of a pain taking out.

I recommend using work gloves so you dont burn yourself.

My new sensor is on the way along with a few other goodies.

Here are some pics of the old one:

[Farbin Kaiber]

Next time...

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Heated-Oxygen-Sensor-Socket-1-2-Drive-22mm-Benz-Ford-BMW-Toyota-Nissan-/110954722046?pt=Motors_Automotive_Tools&hash=item19d56ab2fe&vxp=mtr

[Freakshow]

That's a great tool to have. I just spent a lot of money on parts recently and was debating on if I should buy one or not but will for next time.

[Farbin Kaiber]

There are very few tools I feel you have to have, but a ball joint press, an 02 socket and a fan clutch wrench set are very valued if you intend to work on your e30. There are others, but the headaches saved by those three are awesome.

[ST1G]

There is nothing better then having the right tool for the right job.

[rcsoundn1]

I bought that socket the first time i heard "it needs an O2 sensor. Id buy it every time I had to replace one if need be

[Farbin Kaiber]

^Smart man. Unless you are a woman. Then, smart woman.


Maybe I should have said smart person?

[AndrewBird]

The o2 sensor on my e34 was so tight/stuck, I broke the o2 sensor wrench I bought. Ended up cutting the sensor off just above the hex and using a socket and breaker bar on it. MAJOR pain in the ass as I had to drop the exhaust down completely to be able to get to it. That meant all new exhaust studs as all 6 broke off in the manifolds. Car was down for a week while I waited on parts. All for a fucking o2 sensor!

[Farbin Kaiber]

I was trying to find the video where the guy breaks his o2 sensor free with another car...

[Freakshow]

The o2 sensor on my e34 was so tight/stuck, I broke the o2 sensor wrench I bought. Ended up cutting the sensor off just above the hex and using a socket and breaker bar on it. MAJOR pain in the ass as I had to drop the exhaust down completely to be able to get to it. That meant all new exhaust studs as all 6 broke off in the manifolds. Car was down for a week while I waited on parts. All for a fucking o2 sensor!

That's crazy how seized up the sensor must have been a nightmare! I'm going to make sure to dress it well with anti seize so I dont have a problem like this.

I was trying to find the video where the guy breaks his o2 sensor free with another car...

LOL.

[FLG]

I tend to just go on amazon and throw all the "specialty" tools on the wish list. When i have a few bucks to spend, i buy one. Same thing goes for random stuff like cotter pins, heat shrink, c clips, e clips, springs, rubber hose, fuses, bulbs...the stuff you dont normally have until you need it at 3am, and then realize you dont have it.

I might only use it once, but sure as hell know i have it if need be, be aware...your friends will then not buy shit for themselves and want to use all your tools.

[palimuin]

jl

[serdar255]

Granted my car only has 76k miles on it, i was able to stick a 22mm? open ended wrench on it and remove it easily.

[jeffnhiscars]

I'm going to make sure to dress it well with anti seize so I dont have a problem like this.

2 notes of caution on this. First is that anti seize will foul the sensor so do not get any on the tip and...second some of them come with a compound on the threads that includes a silica/glass that is intended to melt and fuse after getting hot. I can only assume its to improve the seal AND prevent it from loosening...or, evidentally, from being removed..ever !!

[Freakshow]

Thanks for the tip, your right most sensors should come pre lubed with anti seize. Going to update when I get my sensor and a few other parts.