Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Firebird and 2002 Chevrolet Camaro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
Remove the catalytic converter. Refer to Catalytic Converter Replacement (3.8L Engine) .
Remove the connector position assurance (CPA) lock.
Disconnect the wiring harness connector (1) from the oxygen sensor.
Remove the oxygen sensor connector from the spark plug wire harness bracket.

Fig 1: Removing Oxygen Sensor Connector
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the oxygen sensor.

Fig 2: Removing Oxygen Sensor
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the numbers 1, 3 and 5 spark plug wires from the spark plugs.

Fig 3: Disconnecting Numbers 1, 3 And 5 Spark Plug Wires
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the numbers 3 and 5 spark plugs from the cylinder head.

Fig 4: Removing Numbers 3 And 5 Spark Plugs
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the two rear exhaust manifold studs and nut from the exhaust manifold.
Lower the vehicle.

Fig 5: Removing Two Rear Exhaust Manifold Studs And Nut
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the number 1 spark plug from the cylinder head.

Fig 6: Removing Number 1 Spark Plug
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the exhaust manifold heat shield nuts.
Remove the exhaust manifold heat shields.

Fig 7: Removing Exhaust Manifold Heat Shield Nuts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the exhaust manifold studs and nut from the exhaust manifold.
Remove the exhaust manifold and gasket from the cylinder head.
Remove the heat shield studs from the exhaust manifold, if necessary.

Fig 8: Removing Heat Shield Studs From Exhaust Manifold
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.