Ok, my innovate wideband LM-1 kit will be coming in the mail on wednesday hopefully. I have a couple questions about the installation. Does it matter where the sensor is installed in the downpipe? I think I read somewhere that it's supposed to be as far away from the turbo as possible, but before the cat. Also, is the best way to route the sensor wires, up the firewall and through the main wiring harness grommet? Also, if anyone has any suggestions please feel free to comment or include anything! Thanks!

Alex

They generally recommend having the sensor 18" away from the exhaust valves. Most MK3 guys put them at the turbo elbow, which is a bit closer to the valve than 18" but works well enough. Sensor life will be a bit shorter though, so if you have the chance to mount it lower by all means do so.

I routed my harness next to the main engine harness. I had to make a small cut to the gromet to fit the plug through (this was on my AEM wideband so your mileage may vary)...

how long do the sensors usually last?

Under perfect conditions ~60,000 miles. With a car that burns a little oil and has the sensor mounted close to the turbo (Read: most mk3s) ~30,000. Replacement sensors are ~$70-$80 though

Under perfect conditions ~60,000 miles. With a car that burns a little oil and has the sensor mounted close to the turbo (Read: most mk3s) ~30,000. Replacement sensors are ~$70-$80 though

Ok, thanks, it's not that bad then. I was just hoping it wouldn't need to be replaced every 6months or something. So if i install it just after the factory o2 sensor I should be good?

yup, should work fine.

Would it work better if you installed it way at the back fo the exhaust? Near the canister then? Or would that completely fudge it all up.
eric

that will make the sensor "lag" a bit in it's readings.....

I put mine where the downpipe stops going down and bends to run along the car... if that makes sense :p