I need to change my upstream passenger side O2 sensor. I'm having a heck of a time getting my hand back there from above to unclip the orange wiring harness connector from the mounting tab. I was wondering if anyone had a good trick to get this done. Doesn't seem any easier from below either. As I understand it, you need to squeeze and pull to release the orange connector from the tab and then repeat between the O2 sensor and wiring harness connectors.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions or ideas.

 

Can you get to the bolts that secure the bracket to the transmission. If so remove the entire bracket. Then it will be more free to separate the electrical connector. With the new sensor you can leave the bracket off and just secure the cable with a zip tie for easy access in the future.

 

Long screwdriver to push on the release tab. Look at internet photos closely so you understand the release mechanism.

 

I watched the AB video. Does the orange connector just slide onto the bracket or does it lock/clip onto the bracket? I tried pulling it off the bracket with no luck so my thought was that there is a catch of some sort. I wish that my arms were longer and my hands were smaller!

Thanks for the help!

 

Getting the connector off the bracket is as hard as getting the connectors apart, the clip for that is equally as diabolical so pick your poison. Your best bet is to invest the time to remove the bracket from the bellhousing and replace the bolt without the bracket in place. Then as suggested, use zip ties to keep the harness off the exhaust manifold. If you ever have to do the job again you will be thankful.

 

Thanks guys. I'll give removing the bracket from the bell housing a try today. Its frustrating since I can see everything but can't quite get my hand down there to unclip the sensor from the harness.

 

Great news! I was able to lift the harness connector off of the tab and then unclip and replace the O2 sensor. The new O2 sensor tail was long enough that I rerouted the harness across the heater hoses (re-wrapped with insulated tubing) and then zip tied the connection at the firewall so that it is much easier to access next time.

Thank you for all of your insights and help!