Need help removing an oxygen sensor.

[nmwaldron]

Hi
I have my new oxygen sensor ready to go but I can't for the life of me get a good enough grip on the old one to remove it. I have a bently book but that doesnt give much info. I brought an adapter for my socket wrench from autozone but the clearance above the sensor isn't enough to fit the adapter on and remove it (this is the part on the exhaust system, not the pull-out part closer to the engine). Does anyone have any suggestions on how this can be removed easily?
An update for anyone who remembers, I finally fixed the oil leak on my car...it turns out sealant was necessary on my valve cover head.
Thanks
Nathan

[632 Regal]

chop the top of the old sensor, you dont need it anyways. then pop in the new unit.

[Blitzkrieg Bob]

If not you may have to un do a few hangers to lower the exhaust for more access.

[Karl]

Ditto. On my car I have to unhook the exhaust hangars and lower the pipe to reach the O2 sensor.

[nmwaldron]

Thanks for the replies...how do I go about undoing the exhaust hangers?

[nmwaldron]

If not you may have to un do a few hangers to lower the exhaust for more access.

Hi, I dont have a box wrench..just a regular ratchet wench...unless that's what a box wrench is

[Blitzkrieg Bob]

this is a combo open end and box

[mzarifkar]

I have done the procedure on my cat which is like yours, what helped me out was to remove the heatshield that is above the exhaust, protecting the driveshaft et al. It has 4 or 6 bolts that hold it up, once you remove those wiggle the shield towards the rear of the car, the added volume should help you in reaching the sensor and manouvering your tools

let me know how you fare.

[nmwaldron]

this is a combo open end and box

Wow, that's the best looking wrench i've ever seen!!
I have one of those, a 1/2" that is that right size...there just isnt enough clearance to fit it

[nmwaldron]

Thanks much, I'll try that