Has anyone used an aftermarket socket to remove the downstream O2 sensor on our LS460s? I took a look under the car today and there is this cylindrical shield covering the O2 sensor. When I searched for wrenches on the web, many of information posts talk about how almost all the offset sockets could not fit inside the heat shield and folks were using a bench grinder so that it could fit.

Also the longer O2 thin walled sockets were said to be slipping and stripping the sensor nut. Some of the Prius dudes were resigned to buy the specialized Toyota wrench for $150-200 bucks. I would prefer not to cut the heat shield just to remove the sensor. Thanks, Jeff

 

Are you replacing the sensor or you are planning on reinstalling it?

 

I'm not sure yet. The Techstream analysis decision tree points to a bad Catalytic Converter and not my A/F or O2 sensors. If it was cheap and easy, I was going to swap or change out the O2 sensors so I can get more diagnostic information. Ideally, I could buy an inexpensive wrench that could take it out without having to destroy the cylindrical shield on a possibility good sensor.

 

If you were replacing it, you could just remove the guard, cut the wire and remove the sensor with a deep 6 point socket. Then use OTC 4673-6 to install a new one. OTC 4673-6 is likely will not work to remove the old sensor as it is designed for torques specific to installation. Removal torques are usually by far higher and cause the tool to spread out.

 

I just changed the O2 sensor and used the correct socket I bought from AutoZone for like $18.
https://www.autozone.com/test-scan-and-specialty-tools/sensor-socket/p/oemtools-1-2in-oxygen-sensor-crowfoot-wrench/390898_0_0

 

Thanks sha4000 for your perspective. AutoZone has a tool loaner program that help DIY folks like ourselves so we don't need to buy a tool for just one use. I'll see if I can try that tool. Thanks.