removing front O2 sensor. tips?

[00HiluxSurfLTD]

i have a cali spec car. and im replacing the 02/air/fuel sensor just before the 1st cat. i already bought the correct part with the extra gasket and 2 nuts. i tried to remove it this morning but the nuts are so rusted that the socket stripped the nuts no problem. i tried hammering on a slightly smaller socket but that didnt work. any tips? my next thought is to try some pb blaster and vice grips later tonight.

on a side note, is it normal for the exhaust pipe to get so hot so quick. it sat all night and i literally started it up moved it 20 yards and turned it off and that 1st cat got pretty damn hot for the engine only running for less that 3 minutes

 

[Stick Figure]

biggest thing is make sure you are using a GOOD 6 point socket. Not a 12 point and not an old worn out POS. PB blaster will help, vice grips or channel locks could also help if its that stripped out. usually what i do is weld an old socket or wrench to it, and break it loose that way.

 

[00HiluxSurfLTD]

thanks for the help. i finally got it off early this morinig. YAY! no more CEL. the old sensor was coated in thick black crap. i hope my MPG improves a lot now.

i was able to get the sensor off by spaying WD-40 all over it and hammering a 7/16 6 point socket onto the rusted stripped nut and with a little fenesse and luck i got them off.