stanley

Is there any difference between the Denso universal 4 wire oxygen sensor and the Denso OEM one. It seems to me that the only difference is that with the OEM one it has the connector on it, so you don't need to splice any wires. Is this correct?

From some searching I found that our trucks don't seem to like the universal oxygen sensors. But they make no mention of weather it is a Denso one or some chepo brand. I'd just rather not spend the extra $40+ for a sensor with a connector on it, when I can just splice the wires my self.

Links to the two sensors:
http://www.densoproducts.com/more_in...72248&pid=1902

http://www.densoproducts.com/more_in...72248&pid=2047

thook

I've had a universal Bosch in m wife's '92 for several years now (twice) with no problems related to it whatsoever. So, I see no problems running the Denso universal. Sqirt some dielectric grease on the connections, if it makes you feel better, but there's no need to really. The universal style splices seal up well enough, if you do a good job. I've run the '92 many, many, many times through mud and water and never had it corrode. Truly I believe you'll be fine......and save yourself some money at the same time.

abecedarian

the only issue you may end up with pertaining to 'universal' sensors is that they require you to cut the old wiring.
You then have to ensure the wires are approximately the same length as the OEM wiring when you're done.
It sounds like bogus 411, but a few ohm resistance can have an effect on your O2 readings and the heater performance.

BoostinChick

If you check my thread the OEM Denso sensor can be found for $65-70. Worth the extra $20 or so to me to have a direct fit that will be right the first install.

https://www.yotatech.com/forums/f116...4052-a-158597/

abecedarian

If everyone believed that, imagine what the divorce rate would be?

Yodaforce

Universal is fine, whether you take off a half inch or two inches cutting the stock wires, doesn't make a difference. I can't fault anyone who needs to save some dough. I have priced sensors up to $40 more with a connector. That's rediculous. Just splice them together properly (best if soldered) and heat shrink the wires to keep dirt and moisture out.

stanley

Thanks for the advice. I think I'll just get the universal one, I can get it from Amazon for under $50 shipped in a few days. When I looked at the connector, it appeared that there were two black wires, (other two were white and blue). Since both are black, how do I connect them?

abecedarian

according to the directions

thook

You guys are funny. The wires are probably a good two or three inches longer than they were the original style connector and my vehicle runs fine. Splice in the universal, seal it up the way the instructions say, and don't worry about it...

abecedarian

now what is the point of scaring people into being cautious if you throw that caution to the wind?
what's better wires that are too long, or wires that don't reach because they're too short?
huh?
huh?
huh?

thook

I'm not trying to scare anyone into being cautious. One would hope that if the OP was capable enough to replace his own O2 sensor he might be able to follow instructions.....in which case, the instructions on the univ. kits are pretty self-explanatory. In other words, the original wires would be cut at the original connector (going to the ECU) and would not pose any problems. I don't see how the wires could be too short at that point. And, I don't see any problem if the wires are a bit too long. There's not much room for that to happen, anyway.

I dunno Kirk.....I've been away for a while. It was just funny to me to see some posting (not just this thread) wherein the advice/input is overly cautious. I suppose I was mistaken, though. Nothing wrong with being cautious. Just wanted to suggest that replacing with a univ. is nothing to worry about. You know.....like people say never use Bosch or anything but OEM. It's just a little rigid in opinion, I think. In that way, someone who may be none the wiser would spend money or efforts unneccessarily. I've been there.