CAn you clean an O2 sensor?

[Zedyone_kenobi]

I am putting in a new engine and before I reinstall my O2 sensor I would like to clean all the carbon deposits off it. Is there a safe way to do this without damaging the element?

[240260280z]

I read about using a propane torch...use Google to find out if it works.

edit: http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1612066

"Hillbilly reasoning"

Edited July 24, 2012 by Blue

[Gary in NJ]

Eventually the coating on the elements wears thin. It's best to replace them with an OEM quality (or OEM direct replacement) unit. You'll also find that if one has gone bad, the others are close behind.

I just replaced the 4 O2 sensors in my son's Eclipse...at $75 each. But the engine does run better/smoother.

Edited July 24, 2012 by Gary in NJ

[Wade Nelson]

Recommendation: Spend the $20 or so RockAuto charges for a brand new 02 sensor. You'll save MORE than that in gas over the coming 5 years. 02 sensors "get tired" and don't respond as quickly to rich/lean changes.

[Zedyone_kenobi]

I should probably mention, my car is NOT fuel injected. I use an O2 sensor to tune my carbs the 20th century way. I have no reason to think the one I have was bad, but it is sooty, and I wanted to ensure it was ready for some heavy tuning with a new engine with triple Webers

[Wade Nelson]

Ok Zed, but you throw ONE MORE trick question at me and I'll boot you off this forum!

Ya know, I've got this little voltmeter-like thingey that hooks right to an 02 sensor... very similar to THIS

http://www.getme-tools.co.uk/shop/index.php/diagnostics/testers-meters/oxygen-sensor-tester-and-simulator.html

I've actually driven several vehicles around with it attached and it's quite interesting to watch... until you hit a tree!