02 sensor - Bank 2 Sensor 1 (upstream) - Please help

[Metalmantr]

Please help keep me from having to go to a shop or the stealership, guys. 06 4runner-v6

I have the new sensor, got the wire off the old, but cannot find any spot to get to this thing that will give me enough leverage. Btw, it is located right about the cat on the drivers side, a little below the exhaust manifold.

I have tried the special 02 sensor 22 mm socket with the slot on the side for the wire. This things is a 6 point and allows for very little play as far as available angles. I have tried multiple wrenches, ratchets, breaker bar, I even tried the special wrench with a pivot head that is designed purely for this application. No leverage, or not nearly enough.

Has anyone tackled this? Thoughts, ideas? Thanks!

And yes, I have lubed this thing, twice.

 

[Levinz11]

You can't get to it from the wheel well?

 

[Metalmantr]

You can't get to it from the wheel well?

I did try that originally, but not with all my tools. I have not been back to that location yet. Is that the recommended approach?

 

[Levinz11]

I did try that originally, but not with all my tools. I have not been back to that location yet. Is that the recommended approach?

I don't have the V6 so I'm just throwing our suggestions. But on my V8, yes, those upstream sensors were accessed through the wheel well. They were actually pretty easy to get an open end wrench on. I drenched them in penetrating oil for days before even trying.

 

[Metalmantr]

I don't have the V6 so I'm just throwing our suggestions. But on my V8, yes, those upstream sensors were accessed through the wheel well. They were actually pretty easy to get an open end wrench on. I drenched them in penetrating oil for days before even trying.

Thanks man. I do think that will be the solution. In my minds eye, it does appear to be the best bet. Will be trying this evening.