Log #13 - Lambda Sensor, Front Suspension and Rear Brake Inspection

Pre-Catalyst Lambda Sensor

The vehicle was raised and the front wheels removed using a 17 mm long wheel-bolt socket and an impact wrench. The catalyst heat shield was removed with an 8 mm socket. After disconnecting the sensor plug and releasing the cable clips, the old sensor lead was cut because a slotted lambda-sensor socket was not available at the workshop. The sensor was removed with a long socket and the new Bosch pre-catalyst sensor installed using a 22 mm combination wrench. The cable was routed correctly and the heat shield refitted.

Front Suspension Work

Because tie-rod ends and anti-roll-bar links are safety-critical, this work was carried out with a coworker/mechanic. The tie-rod ends were removed using a 19 mm socket; 16–17 mm combination wrenches were used on the anti-roll-bar links. The mechanic installed the Lemförder links and Febi tie-rod ends. Toe was adjusted manually as a temporary measure until professional wheel alignment could be performed.

Front Wheel-Arch Liners

The front wheel-arch liners were replaced with BSG parts on both sides.

Deferred Spark Plugs and Ignition Leads

The NGK spark plugs and Bremi ignition leads were not installed. Access to cylinders 2 and 3 required intake-manifold removal, and the work was postponed until the intake gaskets, throttle body and manifold can be serviced together.

Rear Brake Pads

The TRW rear pads were not replaced because the installed pads still had adequate material remaining. Replacement was postponed rather than carrying out an unnecessary early change.

Conclusion

The lambda sensor and selected front-end components were replaced. A professional wheel alignment remains important after tie-rod work; the postponed ignition and rear-brake jobs remain on the maintenance plan.