O2 sensors replaced: It's a puppy again!

[John Larson]

As I recall, and it was around the time I first participated on this list
(I'll not forget the slamming I took from some Qlist big guns for my stand
on this!), the differences include design location (where it is mounted
within the exhaust system), slit configuration (size shape, and number), and
other factors as specified by the individual auto maker.  These factors
could, as I see it, include air flow volume and velocity, perhaps the number
of cylinders and displacement, the connector (we know that one), and the
overall design of the particular FI/Motronic system and ECU.
As an example, there are 2 universal single wire O2 sensors that are
commonly used in earlier VW applications, one meant to be installed in the
exhaust manifold, and one designed to be installed on or near the inlet side
of the cat.  Obviously, VW and Bosch had a design reason for each unit, and
the function varies enough that even the universal replacements are
different.  They look the same, but they're not.
Next time I see the rep, I'll try to remember to ask him for more
information.  John
----- Original Message -----
From: "Huw Powell" <human747 at attbi.com>
To: "John Larson" <j.d.larson at verizon.net>
Cc: <smitty at pcrealm.net>; "Audifans" <quattro at audifans.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 03, 2002 6:41 PM
Subject: Re: O2 sensors replaced: It's a puppy again!


>
> > My Bosch tech rep, a guy I've dealt with for 29 years, a former Bosch
> > instructor and a career Bosch guy, begs to differ with you.  We've had
this
> > conversation on the list before, and I KNOW there are diehards on the
list
> > who disagree with this, and whom I'll never convince.  It's OK with me,
but
> > IMO you're making statements that are supported by anecdotal
information,
> > not scientific research.
>
> We have open minds here, I hope.
>
> Will your Bosch rep share this technical, as opposed to anecdotal,
> information?
>
> Just because the generic works, it doesn't mean it is exactly the
> same... knowing the actual difference might change a few minds.
>
> >
> > > Actually it's not a myth. The difference is the type of connector or
the
> > > length of the wire. The threads are the same, the composition is the
same,
> > > the voltage range is the same for single and three wire sensors of
this
> > era.
> > > Later types from various marques are different. Some with 5 wires etc.
> > >
> > > My customers are happy as well, particularly when they save $50.00
with
> > > no performance difference. Happy customers are a good thing.(MS) 8-)
> > >
> > > John Larson wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Funny, I just opened my new catalogue of universal O2 sensors and no
> > such
> > > > listing exists for Audis of any year or model.  The myth persists
that
> > > > there's no difference between the various multi-wire sensors Bosch
> > produces.
> > > > The one you list, 13913, fits various Ford products, not Audis.
I'll
> > stick
> > > > to the prescribed units, as will my happy customers.  John
> > >
>
> --
> Huw Powell
>
> http://www.humanspeakers.com/
>
> http://www.humanthoughts.org/
>