A potential fix for lean burn
One of my O2 sensor/lean burn theories is that by moving my O2 sensor downstream about 2-3 feet beyond the factory postion, I have created a delay in the sampling that causes a performance problem when the HX tries to engage lean burn. If you didn't already know, my car hesitates and stumbles when lean burn engages and immediately kicks out. Runs normal otherwise.
I bought this on eBay today. This will be a bolt on part, and the O2 sensor in this manifold is located near where the factory one is, right after all 4 exhaust ports merge. Will this solve my issue? I hope. The good news is that my current exhaust manifold/downpipe is worth more than I bought this for, so I can actually make money by swapping them.
Red Circle: O2 sensor on new manifold
Yellow circle: Where the O2 sensor is on my current manifold
A couple bad tanks...
For whatever reason my car has not been performing well the last couple of tanks. My Scangauge is calibrated, but I've had to offset the fuel usage by a lot the last 2 tanks. I can't really explain it yet, as I haven't noticed any changes in how it runs or drives. The only thing that happened between a recent 48 MPG tank and the lower tanks is an oil change and tire rotation. The weather has not changed significantly. Could be a fluke, or possibly the O2 sensor. It's a cheap Delphi unit that I bought nearly 2 years ago. It already doesn't work with lean burn, so maybe it's giving up under normal A/F ratios as well.
VX/CX transmission swap...
I'm very close to installing the new transmission. I just need cooler weather to not sweat to death in my garage!
Alternator delete... I'm cheap OK!
All I need is a deep cycle battery and this project is complete. I just can't seem to go out and buy a battery. The starting battery I have now is fine, and I am having trouble spending $75 on a battery I don't really need. It will eventually happen, I promise!
HX wheels...
I'm going to have Wal Mart take the old tires off this weekend so I can prep them for paint. I'll be painting them a color close to the factory silver. These will look brand new when I am done! A lowered suspension will accompany the new wheels when I buy new tires in about a year.