[quote name='Lemming' date='Apr 9 2006, 09:30 PM']So, is it optional? I've had a few people tell me that I don't need to run it on my track car, in fact, one says that the car will run better without????? Can anyone shed some light on this subject.
[right][post="18827"]<{POST_SNAPBACK}>[/post][/right][/quote]
Hey Tim: I don't think you want to run without the O2 sensor. It's a critical part of the engine management system. Basically the way they work is this: They measure the frequency of crossover points and adjust fuel, air, timing, etc. accordingly. Because the amount of O2 in the exhaust gas varies, the sensor measures how frequently it crosses a threshold point. If it measures a low frequency of crosses, it adjusts fuel, timing, and air to get the number of crosses back into normal range. When the sensor fails -- or if you take it out of the management circuit -- then the computer defaults all settings to the most conservative setting to preserve the engine. You're friends are correct: You don't NEED it to run the car; however, you'll WANT it if you want your engine to run at peak.
Hope this is helpful...
Jim in Atlanta
