Need Quick Help!! Blowtorch

[CamNub]

Ok, Heres the problem.

I have to get an o2 sensor for some guy on a 1999 mazda 626. And It won't budge at all(The front o2 sensor). I've been trying to get this to move for the last few days and the problem is that my rachet is too big and It knocks and i can't use it very well. Well, i've been trying all sorts of techniques. And im thinking since its really fuckin cold outside maybe the metal has shrunk and is now really tight.

My question is: Can I use a blowtorch to heat this up? My only other option would be a blowdryer.
Btw, For those who don't know. This part sits behind the radiator.

[JetspeedCamry]

It may work..but you may also damage the sensor, coz they are sensitive. But then again..exhaust heat is pretty hot too...
Have you tried penetrant? Like WD40 or RP7?
What about silicon spray?
Have you tryed getting a flat blade screwdriver or chisel perhaps and knocking on the rim of the sensor with a hammer? It may just be rusty.

[CamNub]

I have tryed WD-40. I have nothing else but it. I don't have pb blaster or liquid wrench.

[CamNub]

I'll try the screwdriver thing.

[userlain]

Assuming the car starts, warm it up to idle. Get a breaker bar and break it free with that. Then use a closed wrench to remove it.

If that doesn't work, use penetrating oil to penetrate the threads, then use a propane torch to heat up the sensor bung.

If that doesn't work drive it to a shop and have then crack it loose for you. Tighten it finger tight, drive back to where the o2 sensor is, and unscrew the o2 sensor.


If none of that works, you are SOL.

[CamNub]

The car is dead.

[CamNub]

And btw, Its not really a torch. Its like this portable cooker thing. You put a can of propane in it and you can cook stuff w/ it.

[userlain]

Originally Posted by CamNub

The car is dead.

Use penetrating oil to penetrate the threads, then use a propane torch to heat up the sensor bung. Use a breaker bar to crack the sensor loose.Try and unscrew it by hand.

[CamNub]

What is penetrating oil? And do i rub that crap all over the sensor?

[CamNub]

And instead of breaker bar does hammer/wrench end/etc work?

[userlain]

Originally Posted by CamNub

What is penetrating oil? And do i rub that crap all over the sensor?

Go to an automotive store and ask for penetrating oil. It's just like WD-40 except it is oil based and penetrates down the threads more.

You just spray it around then head of the threads, like you would WD-40.

EDIT: when you use the penetrating oil, make sure it is almost dry before you use the propane torche. depending on the brand of oil, it could be flammible.

[CamNub]

How much does it cost? And wouldn't a torch or whatever just burn the rust right off and loosen it?

[userlain]

Originally Posted by CamNub

And instead of breaker bar does hammer/wrench end/etc work?

The breaker bar is designed to give you maximum torque on the object you are unscrewing. If you don't have a deep enough socket for the sensor, use the largest wrench you have. If you have to, get a piece of pipe to increase the length of the wrench.

[CamNub]

Ok, And will the torch effect the sensor?

[userlain]

Originally Posted by CamNub

Ok, And will the torch effect the sensor?

Try to only heat up the bung; the part which the senor screws into.

The sensor will be able to withstand the heat. It gets +300celcius when the engine is running.