Trouble with X-pipe install and o2 sensors

[Alacrity]

Well I put on my VRS O/R x and while it sounds great, I've got a few problems. For whatever reason, I cannot for the life of me (neither could any of my friends) attach the front two o2 sensors. I thought that only 2004 models needed o2 extensions up front, or if you got LTs? I've got a 2001, and the front right o2 sensor is plugged in, although not securely latched, and the front left o2 isn't plugged in at all. So I guess this leads to two questions...

1.) Is there any risk/damage to driving around without that o2 on?

2.) I guess this is kind of an obvious answer unless there is some other way, but should I just go ahead and buy o2 extensions?

Thanks for your help!

 

[96SCstang]

ok to answer your first question...yes it is not good to drive with front o2's not plugged in. if it were the rears it might be different. you see the front o2's are what the computer accually uses to make sure you fuel ratio is good. the rear ones are really only to make sure you have cats and they are working well. that is y alot of guys turn off the rear o2's. but the fronts most definatly have to be plugged in and fuctioning properly. the second questions is yes buy the extensions and fix it up right. dont cobble things together. the extensions are pretty cheap and will do the job for ya. good luck:SNSign:

 

[Alacrity]

Ok well I'm ordering them now, but will it hurt me to drive the car around for a few more days, and should I make sure not to push it or will that not make a difference?

Also, there's a pretty strong ticking sound that seems like it's coming from the manifolds, is this just an exhaust leak that I can hopefully fix when I get the extensions?

 

[96SCstang]

if i were you i wouldnt drive it unless you had too...just to be safe. and the ticking noise could be lots of things. you just have to get under the car when it is running and feel for a leak. you will know when you feel it. maybe a gasket or something..not sure...gl :SNSign:

 

[fastangboi]

leaks usually pop up on an exhaust swap. be sure to double nut the passanger side where it meets the manifold. they will rattle them selves loose. im not kidding. as for the o2s i experienced the same thing.
There are those plastic loom secure thingys that keep the o2 wires near the firewall. give the harness on the car a little tug to free up a little slack. dont worry it still clears everything.