Installing used O2 sensors- is it worth it?

[3rd Q]

Pulling final pieces off my parts car. It had the O2 sensors repalaced a few thousand miles ago. I pulled them and noticed they have lots of carbon build up. Car had 4 or 5 injectors not up to snuff, so the fuel wasn't being burned real efficiently, I'm sure. Is there a good way to clean them before installing, or am I better off going new? Also, is there an electrical test to make sure they're up to specs?

Thanks for the input.

Paul

[RobertsnewQ]

If they are reasonably new, they will probably be fine.

You can burn the carbon off with a propane torch.

O2 sensors get "lazy" over time as the sensor becomes less sensitive. Carbon fouling usually doesn't kill them, but will make them less responsive until the carbon burns off.

The test is to see how fast they oscillate between lean/rich (around 1v) while the engine is running. Checking them off the engine won't tell you anything - well, almost anything since you can check the heater circuit for opens/shorts.

[elwesso]

Paul.. id have no qualmsputting in newish o2s... Just do what robert mentioned (id use some carb cleaner first, let it dry then do that) and go to town...

[3rd Q]

Thanks, guys. I will do a little clean up on them and see how it goes. Getting them out wasn't as bad as I expected, so I should be able to manage a re-install w/new if necessary.

Paul

[DAEDALUS]

Make sure you don't use anything that could coat the sensor, like silicone lube. That would ruin it for good.

[elwesso]

Thanks, guys. I will do a little clean up on them and see how it goes. Getting them out wasn't as bad as I expected, so I should be able to manage a re-install w/new if necessary.

Paul

How did you get out the passenger side?

[3rd Q]

How did you get out the passenger side?

Wes,I used an offset O2 sensor wrench (like a crow's foot wrench) and an adjustable angle head ratchet I got at Home Depot. Passenger side was definitely harder to get to.Paul

Daedalus,Yeah, I've heard anything silicone is a killer of O2 sensors!

[metaverse3]

Read up on it.. http://www.forparts.com/o-21.htm

I would not install a used O2 sensor if I can afford a new one reasonably. Too many hassles with lazy sensor to clouded dirt fouling readings..