Catalytic Converters

 A hidden and mostly forgotten item under our car is the Catalytic Converter. Introduced in the mid 70’s and made of various expensive metals, the Cat, as it is nicknamed, rids the exhaust of harmful emissions by its reaction flowing through the converter which creates heat and consumes the harmful emissions.

How can we protect this expensive part under the car?

The number 1 killer of catalytic converters (besides ripping them off on a curb or other object) is an engine misfire or a fuel control problem. The converter uses heat for its catalyst process, the more it has to clean the exhaust, the hotter it gets. High temperatures will cause warping, cracking and disintegration of the materials. If your Check Engine light is on, you may have a problem that can overheat the converter. If you have a misfire, you are definitely creating lots of heat.
Catalytic converter replacement can be expensive, if you have a misfire or mixture problem, get it fixed as soon as possible.

Another killer is sulfur, often found in too high of concentrations in some of the cheaper gasolines. Antifreeze from a small leakage over an extended time into the combustion chambers can also lead to converter problems. Short trip driving and not allowing it to reach full warm up temperature can foul the converter and lower its effectiveness.

Cars made after 1995 monitor the effectiveness of the cat and will trigger the Check Engine light if it fails to remove harmful emissions.

 

Integrity, Quality and Exceptional Service.
Wayne's Garage
27 E 27th,  Eugene, Oregon
333 Q Street, Springfield, Oregon