Note. To avoid voiding your warranty on emission control system components, have the catalytic converter inspected and serviced at an auto repair shop.
General information
The catalytic converter is a component of exhaust gas toxicity reduction systems, is included in the exhaust system and serves to reduce the emission of toxic components into the atmosphere. The vehicles covered in this manual use two types of catalytic converters. A conventional oxidizing converter can reduce the content of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide in the exhaust gases. Tri-functional catalytic converter further reduces nitrogen oxide emissions (NOx).
Examination
Diagnostic equipment for checking the health of the catalytic converter is expensive and extremely difficult to operate. If you suspect a converter failure, drive the vehicle to a workshop for inspection.
1. Whenever the vehicle is lifted off the ground for any reason, inspect the transducer for signs of mechanical damage, signs of leakage, and corrosion. Check the condition of the welds and the tightness of the flange bolts securing the device to the sections of the exhaust system. A defective catalytic converter must be replaced.
2. Despite the reliability of the design of the converter, there is a fairly high probability of blockage. The simplest way to check the patency of the transducer is to check using a vacuum gauge:
- a) Connect the vacuum gauge to the inlet pipeline;
- b) By opening the throttle, raise the engine speed to 2000 rpm;
- c) Quickly release the gas;
- d) If the patency of the transducer is not impaired, the vacuum should quickly fall by no more than 51 mm Hg. Art. regarding the norm;
- e) If the meter does not register a vacuum of 127 mm Hg. Art. or higher, or fluctuates rapidly around a higher value before returning to the original value, therefore, the patency of the exhaust system or catalytic converter is impaired.
Replacement
see chapter Power and exhaust systems.