The lambda probe is an oxygen sensor on the catalytic converter of a vehicle's exhaust system. On used cars, it can become dirty, resulting in increased fuel consumption. The purchase of a new sensor, the price of which reaches 30,000 rubles, is too problematic. The only way out is to clean the lambda probe
Necessary
Phosphoric acid, fine natural bristle brush. Desirable - a lathe with a thin cutter
Instructions
Step 1
The working surface of the lambda probe located under the protective cap is contaminated with carbon deposits and lead deposits. As a result, the operation of the sensor becomes incorrect. After cleaning the surface, the normal operation of the lambda probe is restored. The ceramic base of the working surface of the sensor is covered with a thin layer of platinum sputtering, therefore it is forbidden to clean the device mechanically.
Step 2
The method of cleaning a lambda probe is to rinse it for 20 minutes in phosphoric acid. This acid dissolves plaque without harming the platinum electrodes. The sensor is opened before flushing. Opening procedure: on a lathe, the protective cap is cut off at the very base. The work is carried out carefully, using a thin incisor. The use of a hacksaw for metal is strongly discouraged due to the risk of damaging the ceramic of the sensor.
Step 3
Using a fine natural bristle brush, phosphoric acid is evenly applied to the ceramic rod of the lambda probe from all sides. Only the working part of the probe is washed, therefore the sensor is not completely immersed in acid. The dirty stem is black-brown. The clean one should have a steel shade. After cleaning, the sensor should be rinsed well with water and dried. The protective cap is argon welded. If there is no argon welding, then the cap is not cut off before cleaning the lambda probe. With a file, two windows 3-4 mm wide are made in it. The acid wash procedure is carried out with a brush through these windows.
Step 4
After checking the condition of the O-ring, the cleaned lambda probe is screwed into place. The process of cleaning the oxygen sensor from deposits can be repeated an unlimited number of times, as it becomes dirty. If cleaning the sensor does not affect its performance, replace the sensor.
