O2-sensor + Engine mounts + crankcase vent (type 44 body)

["P-O Selander (EUS)" <EUSPOS@am1.ericsson.se>]

Some notes from a sunny Saturday in Seattle.

After replacing my O2 sensor with one "generic" Bosch p/n 13913 (comes with a pig-tail and a three pole connector), I have the following to add to the "crimp versus splice" discussion.

A mechanical splice is always better than a solder. A properly performed crimp splice almost "fuses" the parts together (if anyone have worked with compression type cable lugs they know what I mean. Burundi, Thomas&Betts etc). Apart from that, a good mechanical connection/contact is always a fundamental requirement for a good solder connection.

That said, getting O2 sensor out of manifold was a breeze. Getting the cable out however was a PITA. Disconnected the cable connector in the engine compartment and attached a string to it (to facilitate pulling it back in again, starting under the car). Cable has to be pryed out from two small cable clamps on top of the transmission, easy. But, once under the car, took long time to get the larger cable connector pass tight area between transmission housing and coolant hoses to automatic transmission. Probably fiddled with this "simple" task for an hour or so. Finally got it all out and went inside to splice. Cleaned everything and planned the splice. First plan was to crimp and solder but wires are VERY hard (impossible?) to get to like soldering. Must have some type of a plating. So, I did a crimp splice with three layers of heat shrink.

But, the obvious solution must be: GET A MATING CONNECTOR that fits the one that comes with the generic sensor! wonder why I never thought of that...

Since I spent a fair times under the car, I noticed the two rear engine/transmission mounts. To me it looks like the rubber portion of these are "gone". Possible a result of earlier Pentosin leak. Can wreak havoc on rubber parts... Anyone has any idea of how these mounts are supposed to look while "resting"? Between the larger "washer" and the four rubber prongs on the underside of the mount, there's about 10 mm of space while the clearing on top of the mounts are pretty slim. Should I run to a junk yard and get new mounts?

While at it, I also replaced the crankcase ventilation hose. It had traces of water mixed with oil in it, brown soggy mess. However, there are no other traces of water in the oil and I have no (noticeable) loss of coolant. Any comments, could it possible be condensation from water in the gasoline?!

P-O Selander, Bellevue, WA
89 100E
91 300ZXTT