[DRACO A5OG]

Thanks for the clear explanation of how the connector works. It looks like I am going back in for some work on the connector.

Originally Posted by lr172

For future reference, Bosch makes a universal O2 sensor that mathces the characteristics of the OEM sensor. THe part numbers are:

15725 ( 0258005725)...universal type
15726 ( 0258005726)...universal type

I forget which one I got (one has a longer harness than the otehr). This kit includes a very nice, sealed connector that will perform as well or better than the stock. I got this for a bit less than $50 at the local auto parts store. These part numbers were recommended by Bosch as a replacement for our engines.

They use the rubber connectors because the O2 sensor is designed to pull reference air through the wire. The best practice for designers is to keep the wire connection air tight through the harness and let it pull air from the intrior of vehicle. This is way it is suggest not to solder, as the rubber can melt and possibly hamper the air flow through the wire. The sensor does not require much air and it is able to pull what it needs through the wire.