Chrysler Repair: o2 sensor replacement 91 chrysler lebaron, chrysler lebaron, 1991 chrysler lebaron

Question
I read several of your recommendations to others about replacing the O2 sensor
yourself without using a special tool. My friend is trying to remove mine with a
22 mm box wrench and can't get it off without cutting the wires (and then can't
see how he would get the new one on), are we missing something? 1991
Chrysler lebaron convertible 4 cyl

Answer
Hi Nicole,
I believe that the sensor has a male/female plug interconnection to a corresponding plug on the wiring harness that goes to the plug, correct? That being the case, and if you know the the old one is bad, then I see no reason to not cut off the old sensor's wires. Use the box end to remove it, but first I would soak the base of the threads with penetrating oil overnight and then try to remove it with the box end wrench, rocking back and forth a little bit at a time as the threads are very likely to be corroded. You might also start and run the engine just before try to remove it as that too may help ease the threads.
The new one, because the plug is too large to fit thru the 22 mm box will have to be turned in and tightened with a 22 mm open end wrench if you don't want to buy the 22mm tool with the slot on the side for the wires. It only has to be tightened about the same as a spark plug, and be sure to apply anti-seize compound to the threads of the new sensor.
Roland