Vana-ga-neers,

It's possible to "save" the O2 sensor!!!

To remove the sensor use a propane style torch to heat the outside of
the exhaust's threaded boss! Then apply the wrench

To save the O2 sensor:

Mount the sensor in a vice by it's flats, where the wrench goes.  Then
attach a volt meter positive to the black lead, and ground lead of the
VM  to the body of sensor. Use the propane torch and gently heat the
sensor end until all of the soot is removed. If you see the VM begin to
show voltage changes as the torch heats the sensor and it cools, then
try reusing the sensor.  It's Ok for the sensor tip housing to glow red,
I would overdo this but it should be heated to a glow.

Sincerely,

Mark Keller

I had a similar story of an 02 sensor giving problems on a trip. I
removed the

Check its output with a voltmeter still may be OK and outlast the
exhaust pipe it is attached to!  Should read around 0.6 to 0.7 VDC.
                                                            Jay

Russell Harrel <harrelr@HOTMAIL.COM>@gerry.vanagon.com> on 04/15/2002
09:09:10 AM

Please respond to Russell Harrel <harrelr@HOTMAIL.COM>

Sent by:    Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>

To:    vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
cc:
Subject:    stuck o2 sensor and bad gas mileage

Aaaaaaahhh,  Any secrets on getting the oxygen sensor out without major
damage.  I've
soaked it with WD-40 and another product (can't remember the name) for
hours. I've
cranked to the point that something is going to break.  Any big secrets
here.  My van was
running fine on a recent trip then BAM, 10 mpg for the rest of the trip.
>From looking at
archives it looks like the 02 could be the problem??  Any other ideas?
It's
running a little
rough and rich now too.
thanks
Russ Harrel