I found some good threads and tips about getting the downstream 02 sensor out without removing exhaust parts. While I was under there I kept stacking on extensions and found you could actually get a dead straight shot, but with a solid 24" of extensions, so probably want 1/2" at least for the torsion. But it worked great first try for me, but my car has been babied so it wasn't a bear to crank out. Anyway, something to try. Once you get as far back past that driveshaft flange, you can fit a big 1/2" breaker socket up there (probably too much torsion flex if you just have a breaker bar and no ratchet) and not have to deal with flex sockets.

 

 

Well done....

 

FWIW, on the earlier car, there is supposed to be a straight line to the downstream O2 sensor from the A/C drains. Never done it myself, but it has been mentioned before.

Best of luck, keep us posted.

 

One thing that always impresses me is an owner who maintains a pristine car including engine and undercarriage BUT still drives it. From what we can see it looks like you could eat off the undercarriage. More photos please. Very nice.

 

Thanks, but I can't take any credit. I bought it a couple months ago from wife of original owner who passed last year. 52k miles, 100% garaged, nice weather pleasure vehicle only, very meticulous type of owner you like to see. It wasn't a $ deal to brag about, but it's the nicest one I've seen and was worth a few grand more to me. Such a pleasure to work on a car that isn't all rusted up here in the Northeast US. I'll post some pics soon.