924 turbo O2 sensor really needed?

[clawless]

Hi All,

I a working with a 1980 924 turbo, and am having an issue with the o2 sensor system. The details are below but my question is do I need it hooked up for any thing other than emissions?

Disconnected:
My A/F gauge read nothing (completely lean?) during normal driving, except when I punch it or it is under load, then it reads rich like it should. It runs and starts great.

Connected:
The idle fluctuates about 200 rpm and when I start it hot, it barley runs till I rev it up for several seconds, cold start is normal until the thermo-time switch cuts out and it dies or dips very low until it warms up. The A/F gauge swings wildly (like it should) however its very "slow" and the idle fluctuates with it. I have replaced the o2 sensor and no change. I am guessing the frequency valve is not working right or the o2 computer is shot?


Thanks!

Clawless