Dakota R/T 2WD V8-5.9L VIN Z (1998)
Oxygen Sensor: Description and Operation
O2 SENSOR OPERATION
Four heated O2S sensors are used. They are: Left, right, pre-catalyst and post catalyst. The left, right and post catalyst sensors will fine-tune
air-fuel ratio. The pre-catalyst and post catalyst sensors will determine catalytic converter efficiency.
Two of these sensors are installed into the left and right exhaust manifold downpipes. The left O2S sensor will monitor cylinders 1, 3, 5 and 7. The
right sensor will monitor cylinders 2, 4, 6 and 8.
The sensors produce voltages from 0 to 1 volt, depending upon the oxygen content of the exhaust gas in the exhaust manifold. When a large
amount of oxygen is present (caused by a lean air/fuel mixture), the sensors produces a low voltage. When there is a lesser amount present (rich
air/fuel mixture) it produces a higher voltage. By monitoring the oxygen content and converting it to electrical voltage, the sensors act as a
rich-lean switch.
The oxygen sensors are equipped with a heating element that keeps the sensors at proper operating temperature during all operating modes.
Maintaining correct sensor temperature at all times allows the system to enter into closed loop operation sooner. Also, it allows the system to
remain in closed loop operation during periods of extended idle.
In Closed Loop operation, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) monitors the O2S sensor input (along with other inputs) and adjusts the injector
pulse width accordingly. During Open Loop operation, the PCM ignores the O2 sensor input. The PCM adjusts injector pulse width based on
preprogrammed (fixed) values and inputs from other sensors.
The Automatic Shutdown (ASD) relay supplies battery voltage to both oxygen sensors. The oxygen sensors are equipped with a heating elements.
The heating elements reduce the time required for the sensors to reach operating temperature.
PRE-CATALYST OXYGEN SENSOR
The pre-catalyst 02S sensor is located in the inlet end of the catalytic converter. It provides an input voltage to the PCM. By comparing the input
from the pre-catalyst 02S sensor, with the input from the post catalyst oxygen sensor, the PCM calculates catalytic convertor efficiency.
POST CATALYST OXYGEN SENSOR
The post catalyst heated oxygen sensor threads into the outlet end of the catalytic convertor. The post catalyst heated oxygen sensor input is used
to detect catalytic convertor deterioration and fine tune the air fuel ratio. As the convertor deteriorates, the input from this sensor begins to match
the pre-catalyst sensor input except for a slight time delay. By comparing the inputs from both of these sensors, the PCM calculates catalytic
convertor efficiency.
When the catalytic converter efficiency drops below emission standards, the PCM stores a diagnostic trouble code and illuminates the Malfunction
Indicator Lamp (MIL).
