driver's side o2 sensor replacement - need hint

[alcifer]

Hi, I'm freezing my hands off in my garage and getting frustrated trying to change out the driver's side o2 sensor on my 03 V6 4runner. All the posts I'm reading say how easy it is... and I'm just not getting it.
I have the special socket, but there's hardly any room for a wrench. How'd you do it? from the top... bottom...? type of wrench? thanks a bunch. Have the denso replacements ready to go!!

 

[S p a r k y]

I did this sunday on my passenger side. I know thats not what your looking for. I rented 2 differnt kinds of sockets/tools for autozone just incase. Also spray some penetrant oil on it.

 

[alcifer]

thanks sparky and how did it go? passenger side looks easier than drivers... there's a bit more room.

 

[BOSMECH]

Well I just did my bank 2 sensor 2 (drivers side) which is after the CAT (again) and that one is easy.
The one forward of the CAT you have to get creative with sockect extensions and I used a special O2 sensor crows foot. But once you get it out after using every bad word in the world, make sure you use a thread chaser before you put the new one in with anti sieze on it or you will have a even big mess to deal with.

 

[Hi-Fi Guy]

BOSMECH...did you remove the A/F sensor (forward cat) from the engine compartment or from underneath the vehicle. I need to do both A/F sensors and can't determine if I should go at them from the top or from the bottom.
The O2 sensors cane right off with some PB Blaster, the O2 crows foot & a short breaker bar.

 

[BOSMECH]

Yes I did all four, the A/F I did from the top. It is a pain but you can do it and the connectors are some what of a pain to get apart also since they are in the cennter behind the engine.