Chrysler Repair: auto repair, box end wrench, torque wrench

Question
detailed info on how to repair a 1996 plym aclaim oxygen sensor,in the exhaust manifold.

Answer
Hi Ed,
It is good to begin by using some penetrating oil at the base of the sensor where it threads into the manifold and let it sit overnight. Then disconnect the wires from the harness nearby. Slip a box end wrench over the wires and onto the flats and remove the old sensor, rocking it back and forth to loosen the corrosion on the threads. Once you have it out you may want to chase the threads in the manifold with a 18 mm X 1.5 + 6E tap. Then the new sensor should come with a small tube of anti lock compund which you apply to the threads being careful not to get any on the business end of the sensor. The sensor is tightened to about the same torque as a spark plug, but if you want to use a torque wrench you have to also buy a special slotted socket due to the delicate wires that would other wise get in the way. I have found that a box end wrench will do the job adequately if I am familiar with what tightness is similar to a spark plug installation. Then connect the new sensor's wires to the harness. That is about all there is to it. Be very careful with the wires where the enter the tip of the sensor for fear of damage.
Roland
P.S. Sorry for the delay, the server for the Allexpert site was acting up this morning.