chenxingha

The Denso A/F sensor 234-9009 arrived from Amazon.com during the week and I am trying to put it on today. A P1130 code read leads to replacing this bank 1 sensor 1 A/F sensor near the firewall.

With a LED point light I can see from the top opening where the connector and the sensor are located. But I am having trouble to disconnect the 4-wire plug from the socket. The socket has a release tab. From the look of the release tab it seems that I should squeez it while somehow pulling the plug. But from the look of the little notch on the 4-wire plug of the new sensor, it seems to be the other way, to pull the release tab away from the center line.

I tried both ways but could not get the plug loose from the socket.

(I am trying to disconnect the plug first before trying with an adjustable wrench to remove the sensor from its seat.)

Can anyone share experience doing this replacement in a residential garage with just the wheel jack/stand?

Many thanks,

bearbrew

You need to squeeze the lock tab until you are blue in the face or the air is blue from verbal abuse. The last one I changed I had the same problem and found the connector to be very tight. It took longer to work the connector apart than take the sensor out of the manifold. You may have to enlist some help and have one person on above holding the lock tab down while someone wiggles the male connector from below.

Don't forget to spray some penetrant on the sensor to manifold attach point. Sometimes they will come out without using a penetrant but sometimes the threads will strip if you don't spray.

Some of the penetrants used are 50/50 mix ATF and kerosene. Kroil, Seafoam and others. The three listed seem to be the most aggressive.

I hope this helps!!!

81corolla

I presume you saw the photo in this thread:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...el-sensor.html

Also a small screwdriver from the tab side pushing on the end of the plug might help. Or perhaps one of those rubber jar can openers might give you some grip.

Keep at it!
Good luck.

chenxingha

Thank you all for share the information. I will spray a lot WD-40, leave it over night and get the replacement done tomorrow.

gtopaul

Try using a small flat screw driver to help hold release button down then wiggle plug end out. PB Blaster penetration oil works wonders on the threaded side to get the sensor out of the manifold.

salimshah

I would also suggest to use something other than wd40. Also 1/2 turn to unthread and 1/4 turn re-thread with penetrating oil before every rethread will give you best chance to retain your threads.

Salim

knocker

Don't be afraid to seperate the connector away from its mount to give to give you more room to disconnect it. When you put back together use tie wraps.

Hatchman

As everyone said, small screwdriver, PB blaster, etc. This forum is so helpful.