Date:         Thu, 15 Feb 2001 23:28:30 -0500
Reply-To:     The Bus Depot <busdepot@EMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         The Bus Depot <busdepot@EMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Cheap O2 sensor - 90 Westy
Comments: To: Michael David Korsak <mdk166@PSU.EDU>
In-Reply-To:  <3A8C873F.19AF9FBC@psu.edu>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

> I'd rather buy the cheaper bosch sensor for Fords (Bosch part #13913),
> but does this one work the same as the Bosch #13931?
> How about connecting a single-wire sensor to the existing
> connection.  I know TBD says to splice the connector, but how would I do
> this, and does it affect how it works in my van?  TIA to anyone who can
help me out.



According to the Bosch distributor (from whom I got the info), the 13913 and
13931 are identical spec 02 sensors except for the connector.  So if you
splice on your old connector, you save about 75%. (Actually more when you
consider that the prices on my website don't include the additional 5%
listmember discount (on orders over $50, excluding sale items, engines, and
trans).  Parts America does not indicate this because they don't know
Vanagons.  And to answer your other question, no you cannot use a 1-wire
sensor on an '86-up Vanagon, because it must be heated.  By the way, it is
true that the connection should be sturdy and waterproof.  Among other
options, you can buy (at a home center) a splicing connector made by 3m that
allows you to splice two wires through the insulation.  You crimp it on and
it actually puts a waterproof silicone gel around the splice.  Not sure of
the exact name but your home center may be able to advise you.  It is often
used to splice underground wiring.

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  www.busdepot.com
  (215) 234-VWVW