After looking at shoebox's pics, I still am unable to see how to replace the sensor. Does it unscrew from the block itself or is it removed from the right angle adapter (which is screwed into the block)

Sitting here at work, so I'm unable to look at it right now... just looking for some input..

 

You unscrew it from the angle adapter.

 

Ok, so just the black plastic cylindrical portion (the sensor) unscrews from the second right angle adapter (looking at your picture, it looks like there are two right angle adapters in series)

 

Where the black part stops is the base of the sensor. It is 1-1/16 in size and takes a special oil sensor socket if you choose to go that way.

 

Cr#p...

Why does just about everything on these cars require a "special socket" or a wamboozle extension, or optispark installation instructions that read like directions from a bottle of shampoo: " install the new optispark and enjoy. Repeat as neccesary."


Anyhow, enough venting, shoebox, can I pick up this fancy dancy socket at any ol'e car parts store or is it a dealer item?

 

If you have a deep enough 6 point socket, it will work. A 12 point socket won't because the sensor has special rounded edges. You can get the socket at most auto supplies.

 

thanks for the help.

 

I just replaced/tightened mine yesterday...the socket was like 8.00 but I didnt have enough room to get back there so I just ended up being careful with a cresent wrench...

Now shoe I got a question for you...I only had one fitting back there...the one in the block...and the sensor was threaded into that. This should be accpetable shouldnt it?

 

I just tried the crescent wrench earlier this morning, but couldn't get it in there. Darn ASR box and cables on the driver's side valve cover gets in the way. Might have to temporarily move it.

 

Whatever works is fine.

I had just enough room to go straight on with the socket, an extension and ratchet from the side. Much easier to see with the EGR valve and solenoid off. If you have !EGR, then no worries.
Use some telfon tape on the threads of the new sensor.

 

The saga continues...

I was able to replace the sensor, with the socket, a universal and extension. Piece of cake.

Hoewever
Now the gauge is telling me I have a lower pressure than I was showing before the change. I was getting 20 psi at idle warm. Now it 15 and maybe even lower.

Any thoughts? air bubbles, sensor not screwed on tight enough (leaking) new sensor bad.

Little nervous now, the results are the exact opposite of the intended effects..

 

Ok good, and yep used teflon tape...lets hope it holds this time.