PITA wideband problems, helppp

[coryf1233]

Setup: Innovative lc-1 with g3 gauge

It has not really worked since day one, However, the other day it was reading fine. Usually it fluctuates from all the way lean to all the way rich. but the past two days, it was working like it was supposed to, holding values and such, and not oscillating so extremely anymore..
Then today I start my car up, and the gauge it pegged rich and will not move, gauge is lit up but the indicator light is off and will not come on..

can anyone shed some light on this problem, especially if you have had a similar problem.

 

[4SFED4]

I don't have not used the G3 gauge, but have experience with many Innovative products.

Your first issue could be the positioning of the O2 sensor itself. I found having the sensor much more that 3 ft from the exit of the turbo to cause fluctuation. I place mine within 12" of the turbo outlet. The sensor does not last as long that close, but the readings are solid and more accurate.

As far as the problem with the meter just showing rich your sensor most likely is toast. Any easy way to determine that is to remove the sensor and shake it. If you can hear tiny pieces of glass rattling around inside it is damaged and needs to be replaced.

I have my wideband hooked up to a separate power source from the ignition and power it up 2-3 minutes before cranking the car. It allows the sensor to heat up and helps prevent condensation from damaging the sensor. Leaded fuel will also limit the life expectancy of an O2. A longevity trick for that is to power up the O2 without running the engine and let it dwell for 10-15 minutes or until the meter reads lean >15:1. This allows the O2 to burn out some of the lead deposits. I have tired using a propane torch to do the same, but it is very easy to damage the sensor that way because its difficult to manage the heat.

Hope this info helps.

 

[d_hidayat2000]

Hi.. please check the sensor, whether is dead and please make sure to
put sensor in 9 to 3 position, it helps with condensation problem
and don't put the sensor too close to the turbin outlet or the sensor would be fried
g luck