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MG MGF Technical - Oxygen/Lambda sonsor

Has anyone changed this sensor. If so which is the best access? From underneath or alternator side with heatshield and alternator removed OR whatever.
Ta.
Ken Waring

To all,

If you need to replace your lambda sensor, the best price I found was in November 2007 was at Camberley Auto Factors, the price was £55.59, inc VAT, collected, the lambda sensor is the Bosch sensor supplied to Rover, the bosch/Rover part number is stamped on it, part number 02580 03229.Contact number of Camberley auto factor head office is 01252 517272.

Regards,
Simon
simon connolly

Thanks for that Simon. Did you change it or find someone to do the deed for you. The MOT place that failed the car didn't want to touch it. What a surprise. :-)
Ken Waring

Ken,
I cannot help you, my MGF K series engine is fitted into a TX1 London taxi which is rear wheel drive ,so looking from the front, the exhaust manifold is on the right ,in my case access to the sensor is good,hopefully one of the mgf boys will be along soon.The advice I give to you is,once you gain access the sensor, spray plus gas on the sensor thread and let the spray soak in and then undo with a spanner.
Simon
simon connolly

The sensor nestles down in where all the collectors meet - which puts it in a very awkward position. I've only ever seen these removed on a manifold that's been taken out of the car - and even then they're a 'challenge' to remove. Chances are it'll be knackered by the time you've got it out, even if it was fine before!
Rob Bell

There is also a good chance that you will rip the thread in the exhaust which many dealers will say requires a new replacement.
A 16mm Spark plug helicoil costs pennies.
Geoff F.
Geoff Farthing

Oxygen sensor update. The sensor was physically broken, that is the metal shield had corroded away at the manifold end and the sensor had broken. A sharp tug and the centre of sensor popped out. That allowed me to get 22mm short socket and longish bar and I was able to remove it. Spot on Geoff the thread was badly dammaged and the new sensor wouldn't hold so it was manifold off. I investigated a helicoil repair and you are correct the coil is about 60p BUT the drill and the tap come as a kit, about £75 for M18 plus you need a mighty big drill press. I tried a local machine shop to do the job, £92. Good idea but.... I'm waiting for a replacement manifold and that's a bit of a story. Anyway to put it back I cut a slot in a 22mm offset ring spanner, you need the offset to clear the exhaust flange and the slot to feed the wires through. Now the manifold is off I don't need it of course :-) Anyone need a modified 22mm ring spanner.
Ken Waring

If you have a problem getting a manifold, then let me know. I keep a tap and Insert tool, plus coils, in my tool box. You should not need the drill unless the hole is beyond repair and needs to be welded first.
Sealey sell a slotted socket for the job.
Geoff F.
Geoff Farthing

Be aware that there are two patterns of exhaust manifold for the MGF - both fit, but you need the matched down pipe, as the two designs are not compatible (see figure here: http://mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/exhaust/exhaust_differences.htm
Rob Bell

Thank you gentlemen. The problem is now solved. Angel Autoparts cam up with a manifold from a Rover 200/400 £30, which is the same four stud down pipe. The sensor thread was in perfect condition. A new sensor from cats2go made by thompson £27 with the correct plug, no wire joining. Gaskets from Land Rover £7.40. Passed MOT retest today.
Geoff all the helicoils I looked at for M18 needed about an 18.5mm tapping hole for the coil i.e about 2mm bigger than the normal M18 tapping depending on % engagement. The coil wire looks pretty thick to me, maybe yours are different.
Ken Waring

That sounds like the perfect solution - nice one Ken :o) That lambda also sounds outstanding value! Is there a part number for it?
Rob Bell

The part number is... LSK036.
They also have the sensor with the oblong plug presumably for a latter vintage.
Geoff I just noticed your comment about the Sealey socket. The socket will fit but I doubt that it's possible to get a 1/2 inch drive on the back due to limikted space and the sump flange. That's why I asked the original question about access from underneath or the side by removing the alternator. The manual recommends a clawfoot spanner. My version is the mutilated ring spanner.
Ken Waring

This thread was discussed between 06/09/2008 and 19/09/2008

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