O2 sensor premature failure with LM1

[buickboy]

I am running leaded race gas on the track only. Brand new Bosch sensor lasted maybe 30 minutes running motor (idleing and racing) before I getting sensor error and Pump Cell open. What gives?

Mitch

 

[87geeinn]

1) Did you read the instructions for the LM-1/Bosch sensor?

Wide band oxygen sensors – like the one shipped with the LM-1 – are
designed to work with unleaded gasoline. Using them with leaded gasoline will
significantly reduce the lifespan of the sensor. The reduction is directly
proportional to the metal content of the fuel. In most cases, a wide band sensor will provide accurate measurements somewhere between 50 hours and 500 hours with leaded fuel.

2) Did you mount the sensor in the proper position (i.e.-between 10-2 o'clock, NOT in the stock 02 location, etc.)

3) Using a heat sink?

True, that is a short lifespan, however I wouldn't say unusual given the circumstances.

 

[buickboy]

No heat sink, but sensor is in the downpipe 8-10 inches from turbo between 10 and 11 o'clock. I do leave the LM1 box on and hot between rounds to keep the sensor hot. Will that make it go bad?

Mitch

 

[DonnieShort]

IMO, 8-10 inches from the turbo is way to close. Too much heat. Those sensors don't like anything over 900º-950º and if it is exposed to it for too long will make it go bad. The best spot I have found for me is in the dump pipe. Others will chime in with there locations that are closer that never had a problem, which is fine, that's why I said for me it was the best location.

 

[grocerygetter]

I fried mine that close to the turbo at about 22 psi on C16. WOT 3rd gear interstate.
Mine now resides right at the bottom of the firewall...near test pipe area.

 

[Mike Licht]

Bottom of the downpipe seems to give best lifespan.
Mike

 

[Turbo1dr]

I have mine at the bottom of the downpipe just before the converter.