[agfours]

I just replaced the O2 on my 85 this last weekend. I bought the tool, and although it was ~$25, it was piece of mind that I didn't end up with a stripped O2 sensor...

When I got into the job, here's what I did find - the tool helped immensely, as it will receive a socket wrench or breaker bar for added leverage, AND, I didn't have to remove the heat sheild next to the catalytic converter, saving me from needing to remove 6 more bolts that were definately frozen from rust / heat, as the O2 tool raised the height of where you would put the wrench. Would not have been possible to get around the heat sheild with a box wrench, and would not have had the vertical flexibility of the U-joint in the breaker bar.

Also, the tool provided better grip than an open end wrench when re-installing the new one.

Could it be done without the tool? Absolutely. Was it much easier with the tool? Absolutely.

Also, as mentioned - get some PB Blaster or CRC penetrant - give it a turn, back it off a little, then spray, wait 10 mins. Go a little more till it sticks, back it off, spray, repeat.

I also bought the three wire, so that I had an exact OEM replacement, which fit as intended without having to go to the additional steps of splicing wires, or looking at wiring diagrams any more than I had to.

One more note - when I bought my O2 sensor from pelican, there was an O2 relay for $12. I bought it too....but....for the life of me, and also for others I saw who posted they bought it too, could not find where it goes, and there was no mention of it in the Bentley book (reference chart on relays in the back) or the Chilton manual. The only place I saw MIGHT be a match was under the driver's seat, but could not confirm with the repair manuals that this was one and the same relay.

Interestingly as well, the part I ordered was not the same part number that showed up - I received the standard 'Bosch relay' vs. the part number stated on the order slip... that mystery aside, after replacing the O2sensor, it idled better, ran more smoothly.

So, anyone want to buy a standard Bosch relay, or have any additional thoughts on the O2 relay subject?