so i have an 88 Runner and i am trying to change the o2 sensor. the problem is that the previous owner has stripped the nuts out so bad that i cannot get any socket/ wrench to bite. any advice on what to do or where to take it? i was thinking about taking a small hacksaw/ dremel bit and cutting the nuts off and just buying new ones. any help is definitely appreciated.

thanks!

 

Soak them real good with PB blaster or use a torch to heat them. Get a set of Irwin Bolt Grips (anything similar) to remove them. The best way to do it. If you happen to break the studs.....well, cross that bridge if you come to it.

https://www.hardwareworld.com/5pc-Bo...t-pN7NU6R.aspx
You can get them at an O'Reilly near you!

 

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...eneral+Purpose
I bought a irwin set of these and then I had to buy a craftsman set they both work well.

 

My nuts were so bad they were almost nothing. Just be really careful not to damage those studs or you will need a new downpipe (at least that's how it was for my 94).

 

something my dad does occasionally is finds a cheap socket set, finds the socket he needs, and goes a size smaller. obviously it doesnt fit. but if you hammer it on, it will. and it will come out. just good luck getting the bolt out of the socket. thats why i said cheap. if its stripped so bad sounds like its shot anyway. just my .02

 

Yeah Toyota used steel locknuts on those and with rust in the way they are very hard to remove in one piece. I'd say cut the nuts off if you can without hurting the studs too bad. Sometimes you can replace the studs with new ones like I did here:

 

If there is room, you can use a small chisel and hammer to 'unscrew' the nut by hitting it. First a couple hits square on, then at an angle to move the nuts.

If they're really corroded bad, getting the system HOT and then going at it is the answer. Or use a torch.

I dunno where the 02 sensor is on your truck, but on a lot of toyota vehicles, especially Previa vans, this is how we get them off.

Use new nuts from the dealer, they have BIG shoulders, and are locking type. Or else your sensor can fall out.