Hello everyone, first post! yay...

Anyways, I checked out my o2 sensor (the one BEFORE the cat. converter) And its rusted on there pretty bad...


Is it worth trying to get off there with the risk of totally breaking my exaust? Aren't these things suppose to be replaced like every 75K+ miles? Mine looks like its been on there a LONG time... (Just got this Yota) I ran the on-board diagnostic test and didn't get any codes. But from what I've heard, that doesn't necessarily mean that its still working right... I'm getting about 11mpg right now, so I'm just guessing the o2 sensor is the main problem... But what do I know?

What do you guys think about all this jibber jabber?

 

Give more insight on your particular vehicle first off. Second Ide leave it till you through a code. Spray some liquid wrench, let it sit of a few min's, take it off and replace the sensor and gasket Thats if you really need to which I dont think is the main problem. Spark plugs, cap, rotor, wires, fuel filter and air firlter first to help with MPG and basic upkeep. That sensor can last a long time or go quickly but dont worry about that just yet.

Welcome

 

you should be able to replace it without too much trouble. The nuts are severly rusty but generally the treads, studs, and pipe are good. you will need a set of stripped nut and bolt removers though and lots of penetrating lube. I've found that these work the best for getting those nuts off. I've pulled off rustier o2 sensors and nuts than that. In fact, my o2 sensor nuts rusted off and blew the o2 sensor off. Replaced the nuts and everything was fine. Had to replace o2 sensor couple of years later but oh well. Seeing your 11 MPG and 75K miles might not be a bad idea to change it if not for purely maintenance reasons. but like fillsrunner said there is probably other issues affecting mpg. just my opinion.

 

If you have a FSM, read the test procedure. You can figure out if it's working at the ECU or after it's warmed up at the connector directly.. Either way, I say don't pull it if it's working right.

If it breaks - and it might - an exhaust shop can weld in a new section of pipe with a new bung on it. I wouldn't pay more than $40-$50 for the service.

 

Alright, thanks guys. I was planning on getting new plugs and wires anyways. I guess I'll do that first

A little more info on my runner...

1992 4Runner 3.0 V6 SR5

182K miles

I've replaced the air filter with a K&N.

The only other ''maintenance'' I've done on it was put a quart of oil in it (leaky oil pan gasket, I think) power steering fluid, brake fluid, anti-freeze, windshield wiper fluid, and new wiper blades! lol

my next check will go to new plugs and wires... Anything you guys recommend? I'd like to get GOOD plugs and wires, but don't want to spend a fortune either... Also, what is a good all-around place to buy 4Runner parts online? I've looked at www.car-stuff.com and they seem Okay... but would like to know where you guys do your online parts shopping!

 

www.sparkplugs.com Great prices on all ignition stuff.

 

Sweet, thanks. I found Premium NGK spark plugs and wires for my truck and its only gonna be $80 + shipping!