Something is unplugged
 

I was looking around in the engine bay and found a wire with a connector that was unplugged . I looked around and found the other connector that it mates to. The connector is about a 1/2" in diameter and in the end of the plug is two females and one male prongs and the other plug visa versa. One end of the wire goes through the drivers side wheel well and I havent been able to trace exactly where the other end leads.
I plugged it together and started the car and found no difference.
I am sure with more investigation I can figure out what it is but I thought I might save some time if I asked you guys.
Any clues out there?

Pictures?

O2 sensor?

jason
81 SC

Well after further investigation I have found that the plug is to the o2 sensor . I managed to plug it back in (yesterday when I did I must not of had it connected all the way) and now my idle is definitely higher.
The question is should I be plugged in or not and is this the reason she failed smog (co was high just barely) ?
I checked archives but didn't find anything definite.

anyone ?
bueller?

Yes, it should be plugged in.
-Chris

I would think that on any computer-controlled car the O2 sensor should be plugged in. The computer uses this device to adjust fuel delivery, etc.

The O2 sensor should be replaced every 60,000 miles or so. If your car has that kind of mileage (or more), it's possible the sensor has gone bad and a PO just decided to unplug it. It's not difficult to replace. Pelican sells the part, and others sell a universal replacement.

Thanks guys for the replys. I figured it should be hooked up.
The only thing I am trying to determine now is whether this will help me on smog inspection. I haven't taken it back yet I am trying to avoid a big mechanics bill just to adjust a screw or a plug. It isn't my daily driver so I have been putting it off.
Besides that I am trying to do more myself as I want to be more self-sufficient when it comes to maintenance issues. :D

it will definitely lower the emissions when it's plugged in. carreras need it in the system. SC's can live without it, except to pass emissions.

Thanks john walker. It was as I suspected. I was hoping you or one of the other mainstays on here would help me out on this.
I think I am ready to take it back and give it another shot on the smog test . :D