PPI found O2 sensor disconnected!

[astark]

I just remembered that the mechanic that is donig the PPI on the 87 I am considering buying, said that the O2 sensor was disconected. Apparantly the PO was running the car that way. What affect would that have???
Does the car go into "limp home" mode(runs rich)?
What long term affect would that have on overall performance ??(I have to assume that the sensor was disconected for a long time).

Thanks for your thoughts, but the more I think about the situation, the more I think about walking.

Alan

[kqw]

With the 02 sensor disconnected...the car will seem to run better/responsive...However over a period of time it will destroy the catalytic converter and not be able to pass emissions.

[Victor]

Mine was disconnected for a long time. Engine has done 130K Miles and is as tight as a drum.

[kqw]

The car will run fine but the cat will not be....

[astark]

Thanks All--

Pa is an emissions state. If the O2 sensor can be disconnected and the engine will run fine, could I install a Euro pre muffler--better sound/less restrictive. The shop I use for yearly emissions inspection said on old cars, he did a visual inspection for a cat and did the sniffer test. I doubt he would know the difference between a cat and a Euro premuf.

I still have this nagging question: If the O2 sensor is not necessary for proper performance, why is it there???

Alan

[Rick Lee]

A properly tuned Carrera should pass emissions even without the cat. Get rid of that cat the day after you get your inspection, or hollow it out and leave on there for the visual.

[Dan Owens]

Alan,

The O2 sensor is necessary for proper operation. The car will run without it but you start to open a can of worms about the effects it has on performance. Two camps here on the bbs, no problem, run without it and no way reconnect it and correct the adjustments properly. Run a search on the archive and I think you'll fine plenty to read.