(Urgent) Oxygen O2 sensor - won't thread (1 Viewer)

[kennedymil]

Supposed to be leaving on a trip tomorrow, decided to address CEL and replace upstream O2 sensors (Bank 1 &2, sensor 1). Old sensor from driver side came out easily - no issues.

However, new sensor will not thread. Put anti-seize on both sensor threads and a light coating on bung threads. Tried for 20 (!!) minutes, first turning counter-clockwise loosely to seat, then clockwise. No go.

Is there a trick I'm missing? Or can I clean out the bung and put a little oil lube on the sensor threads?

Hoping this does not need to be fully re-tapped/threaded.

Thank you!!

 

[kennedymil]

.. and I should have added I tried re-threading the old one. It doesn't want to thread, either.

 

[Shortpencils]

Chase the existing threads with the appropriate tap.

 

[Njck22]

what are the part numbers for your new sensors, and do the threads match the old ones?

 

[kennedymil]

what are the part numbers for your new sensors, and do the threads match the old ones?

Thanks for the quick replies! The part # is 234-4138 (Denso). My LC is 2003. Looks identical to the one I pulled out.

Picked up a 18x1.5 mm chase. Will give it a whirl.

 

[kennedymil]

Success!

Ran the chase through a couple of times. Was a bit worried when it still wasn't threading. But I tried a different angle of approach (left hand) and got it to thread cleanly. Took more finesse than I imagined.

Thanks, @Shortpencils. A $10 thread chase saved the day.

 

[TheLCProject]

I'm glad you got it!

 

[kennedymil]

Thanks, clayinho.

The sensor on the passenger side, which is way more difficult to access, was actually easier. Go figure.

A flex head ratchet is a must for this job,