Well, yesterday I replaced the two pre-cat O2 sensors (I was getting a consistent code on one), changed the thermostat (was leaking a little) and water pump (pm) and put in a new air filter and cabin filter. The first couple of engine starts after that and the 76 sensor code DIDN'T SHOW UP ! It never failed to come on before !

Today is a new day. I've got some errands to run ... will the code show up again ? Perhaps the new filter allows the engine to "breathe easier" and it's not sucking air in from some miniscule crack after the MAF ?

Fingers crossed ...

Dave.