O2 (Lambda Sensor) Question

[62Sunbeam]

Sorry to pick everyones brain again.

I was getting error code 14. Bad coolant sensor etc. so I went out and bought a new sensor.

Before i could replace it the code changed to 45. Bad Lambda O2 sensor.

My guess is the engine running rich because of the temp sensor "fouled" the O2 sensor.

My question is this: Can I clean the Lambda sensor and replace it (and if so with what?) or do I need to replace both if I go that route?

Here's the history: 95 Disco 164K miles reluctant to start when hot. Sometimes won't start at all till it cools down. Replaced coolant sensor on the manifold and this had no effect. Recently tuned up and I checked the connection on the right side O2 sensor and it seems fine.
Is there a test I could try to check the sensor and it's connection before I replace it?



Thanks

Eric

 

[discomike]

Eric,
When it rains it pours.
The O2 sensor will not cause a start problem because it is not in closed lope untill the engine has gone thru a warm up cycle. The coolant sensor should not have effected the O2, I think you are having to deal with 2 separate problems. Have the O2's ever been replaced, at your mileage they should be ready for their second replacement. No O2's don't clean up usually, once they are fouled they are gone. If do you replace the O2's make sure you do them both at the same time, you will love the difference in how it runs afterwards.
Mike J.

 

[62Sunbeam]

I'm justa little weary of replacing a whole bunch of sensors to find out the left handed smoke changer is turned on low. If you catch my drift.

You say a faulty O2 sensor shouldn't cause a problem on startup yet that is where my problem is.
Only when the Disco is hot. If I've been driving in city traffic for an hour and pull ito a partking lot for twenty minutes and then got to start it again it starts reluctantly at best.

Yes I do have the 45 error code (right O2 sensor MF) but if the O2 sensor isn't my hit startup problem what is? Any thoughts??????


Thanks

Eric

 

[discomike]

Eric,
You know how some mechanics can't find a problem after working on a vehicle all day, Hell I don't know what color your truck is and I don't know where t start.
Could be a failing coil, weak spark, or failing fuel pump not being able to get up to pressure when hot, I don't know.
Mike J.

 

[62Sunbeam]

I know how hard it is to diagnose a problem over the internet. Until I get my manual I'm kind of up a creek. I'm just hoping that someone might recognise the problem and help me out. By the way I appreciate all your hasty replys.

By the way you said new O2 sensors will make a noticable improvement. I was curious what I might hope to expect????

Thanks

Eric

 

[discomike]

Eric,
You can easily get a 10% boost in power and mileage if they are over 75 to 80K old. I have seen some people wait until they get check engine lights on all their O2's and they are amazed as to the change.
So think coil or fuel pump for starters on where to look. By the way, I have nearly 20 years in a shop or to so I have some pretty good experience with vehicles.
Take care, have a good holiday,
Mike J.