Help with O2 sensor problem

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jay1028 - 04 Nov 2008 20:51 GMT

Took the 2003 ZX5 in for a vibration problem in reverse. Turns out
the motor mounts are shot. They ran a diag and found that the O2
sensor is bad and also some vacuum hose assoiated with the sensor had
a hole worn in it. I know that a two conductor cable runs to the O2
sensor. They want $288 to fix the O2 problem. I can get the sensor
for $50 and $10 for the special socket to remove it, but anyone know
what they are talking about the vacuum hose?

Thanks
Jay

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Michael Pardee - 20 Nov 2008 23:39 GMT

> Took the 2003 ZX5 in for a vibration problem in reverse. Turns out
> the motor mounts are shot. They ran a diag and found that the O2
[quoted text clipped - 6 lines]
> Thanks
> Jay

Before springing for the O2 sensor (it can't be properly diagnosed until the
vacuum leak is fixed) check out the vacuum leak. I suspect it is in the same
place my friend's was - and I got that tip on line - on the bend of the PCV
hose where it leaves the intake manifold. To check it, either get underneath
with a mirror or: remove the intake duct leading to the top of the throttle
body and reach down behind the throttle body almost to your elbow. Way down
there you will find the PCV hose nipple. If you feel the hose carefully
around the point where it makes the 90 degree bend you will probably feel a
hole. It will take the form of a split, probably in line with the hose. The
hose is a special one with different sizes on the two ends. Replacing it
required getting underneath (ramps were very handy). You will also want to
replace the clamp(s) with a pair of worm clamps so you don't go insane
fighting them.

The leak produced a "check engine" light with a P0171 (bank 1 mixture lean)
code and intermittent high idle.

Mike

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