Just like the title says, can a factory O2 sensor be damaged if it is left in the exhaust after an OBD2-OBD1 conversion?

I want to be able to use an OBD1 ECU for a few weeks, but I don't want to damage the secondary O2 sensor because I'll need to get the OBD2 ECU back in for smog in a few weeks. I can't think of any reason it would be damaged but I understand O2 sensors can be fragile.

 

No it shouldn't effect the sensor.

 

It can in some cases. When the O2 is being used it will have a heater element that will heat the sensor to operating temp. When not in use without this it has a chance to become clogged. Just jack up the car and pull it out and replace with a plug. Just to be safe.

 

OK thanks for the help guys. I've got some toasted spark plugs I can use.