Replaced the OE sender with the Original version sold by SNG. Don't want to break it by overtightening, but it still drips. Took it out and put PTFE tape on threads, ran it, tightened it, still drips. Have some Pipe thread sealant, is that a reasonable next step? The OE unit had a washer on it, kept that washer.

 

Hi Valerie,
The sensor does not have pipe threads, therefore it needs a gasket/sealing washer. You should use a new gasket/sealing washer. Make sure the surface of the intake manifold is smooth without any nicks/gouges/cracks. If you use PTFE tape again (shouldn't be needed) make sure it doesn't get between the gasket and the sealing surface of the intake or sensor. You should be able to get gasket/sealing washer at almost any auto parts store. Take the old sensor to get the correct ID.

 

Suggested that I use copper crush washer, none to be found (NAPA, big box , et) suggestions on where to find, without the $10 usd shipping cost for $ 2 washer.

 

Hi Valerie,
You can make one by buying a copper washer and heating it red hot (gas stove or propane torch) and immediately dropping in water. Then lightly sand both side.
hope this helps.
Cheers,
Bob_S

 

Hi Valerie,
I like Bob_S suggestion of making your own copper washer. But if you don't have a way to heat it properly, here is another option. You can buy gasket material (a sheet) at just about any auto parts store, and make/cut your own washer. Good luck and let us know how you resolve the problem.
Bill.

 

Thank you for all the good advice. I do have gasket material, but would like to do the annealed copper washer. Trouble is... hard to find one. I believe it's also an M16 size oil drain plug washer, so may have a lead on one of those today. If pressed, yes, I will buy 10 and pay 8.95 in shipping. Current install will work until then, I hope. Just don't like having leaky things (so why do I have a british car???

 

You might also consider buying a box of assorted sizes of copper washers on Bay. You may only need one now but sooner or later you'll undoubtedly need another so it's good to a few of assorted sizes in stock.

 

Val,
Heating the copper washer red hot and quenching it in water anneals it. You can buy a box of assorted copper washers at Harbor Freight. I had to anneal some custom exhaust manifold gaskets for my wife's car and it worked great. I hung them by a coat hanger so it was easy to heat and quench.