97 Q45 Y33 O2 sensor replacement?

[bullittandy]

I planning on replacing all 4 O2 sensors tomorrow on my 97 and read somewhere that it might be wise to break the old sensor off at the nut in order to get easier access. It makes sense since it has to come out regardless-intact or broken. I'm thinking that with the sensor broken off I could get a regular socket onto it. I know that they make a special socket with a "cut" in it to allow for the sensor but I've bad experiences with brake line wrenches "spreading" and losing their effectiveness. Any thoughts? Thanks

[goody90q45]

I looked at the O2 sensor sockets at Napa AP a few months back and they are build pretty beefy. I don't think you'll have to worry about the socket spreading.

Cutting the sensor makes sense to remove it but aren't you going to need a socket or crow's foot to reinstall the new sensor anyway? Each was about $10 at Napa. Use PB Blaster or equivalent the night before. Let us know if it was a huge PITA or a manageable PITA. Good luck.

[lakeq45]

My AutoZone will loan the O2 sensor socket for free.

[maxnix]

Any thoughts? Thanks

A couple good posts in Infiniti Online Mechanic forum where this one should be.

[bullittandy]

A couple good posts in Infiniti Online Mechanic forum where this one should be.

Thanks. This is exactly the kind of help that I was looking for.

[miata007]

I have sure you know this already. Just in case, be sure to put some WD40 or simliar and let the car sit for atleast 2hrs. I would personally spray them tonite if I am going to work on them tomorrow.

007

[bullittandy]

I have sure you know this already. Just in case, be sure to put some WD40 or simliar and let the car sit for atleast 2hrs. I would personally spray them tonite if I am going to work on them tomorrow.

007

Good advice! I bought some "PB blaster" and soaked them good tonight. I got distracted by new wheels so the O2 sensors have to wait until tomorrow. Keep posted.

[bullittandy]

This sucks! I've got three replaced and just broke one O2 sensor socket on the driver's side! Anybody have firsthand advice on which direction to go on the driver's side of a Y33? (Translation-save the "search the threads advice")