Car catalytic converter

Automotive catalytic converter serves to reduce the level of harmful substances in exhaust gases. Basically we are talking about carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, which in the course of the catalytic reaction are converted into harmless substances. In the vehicles with gasoline engines this work is done by a three-way catalyst that uses rhodium, platinum, and palladium as catalysts. The chemical reaction that takes place reduces harmful substances in exhaust gases. In the vehicles with diesel engines are used oxidation catalytic converters to transform hydrocarbons.

It is reasonable to install catalytic converters in older vehicles. Due to this it is possible to achieve higher environmental standards, which will provide significant tax benefits. A cheap alternative is a mini-catalyst. Functionality of the catalytic converter is determined by measuring the exhaust emissions. Rattling sounds also indicate a faulty catalytic converter. It is necessary to replace it. Faultiness must be repaired before passing the next test of the exhaust emissions level. For environmental reasons do not long delay the installation of a new catalyst.

In most vehicles the catalytic converter is installed between the oxygen sensor (lambda sensor) and the exhaust manifold. To replace the old catalyst it is necessary to disassemble the exhaust system. Usually this is done with the help of a diamond wheel. To install a new catalytic converter welding is required. In addition, the flange can be used. In our internet catalogue you will find many other spare parts, like fenders, brake shoes, cylinder locks, taillights. If you need a new oxygen sensor or any other car parts for exhaust system, you will find them here.

Catalyst failure

• various mechanical defects of the body:
• breakage or violation of a cell construction;
• stopping of chemical reactions activation by substances catalysts.

Signs of catalyst converter failure

• engine stop in the idle mode;
• difficulties at engine starting;
• change of exhaust gases colouring (emergence of a gray or light blue shade);
• difficulties when accelerating and engine rpm speed increase;
• extraneous sounds during the exhaust system work;
• automatic switching on of the "Check Engine" warning bulb on a dashboard;
• growth of fuel consumption exceeding norm by 1,5–2 liters per 100 km;
• emergence of a hydrosulphuric smell at operation of the exhaust system;
• existence of metal drips on the Katalysator body.

Causes of Katalysator failure

• consumption of fuel with tetraethyllead additive;
• use of poor-quality fuel;
• problems at formation of gas mixture and considerable change of its standard fuel-air ratio;
• penetration of lubricating oil or fuel into catalyst converter;
• damages of the catalyst internal cells;
• soiling of the catalyst converter by the gases formed during fuel combustion;
• active use of the component after the term of its operation is over;
• incorrect use.

Diagnostics

Special equipment is required to diagnose faults of the Manifold catalytic converter. Therefore only qualified service station specialists can do this work. But there are external signs indicating existence of malfunctions. Noticeable damages which are found on external part of the catalyst are among them. It is necessary to replace the component in short terms in case you have noticed such defects.

Experts measure the productivity of a cell construction by the manometer attached to the place of the first oxygen sensor. Then the engine is accelerated to 3000 rpm. Readings of the system don't exceed value of 2,94 Pas or 0,3 kgf/cm2 at a safe pressure.

The standard term of operation of the catalyst converter is 100000 – 150000 operational kilometers. It is strongly recommended not to exceed this value and stop using a worn-out component. Reduction of cells capacity is dangerous for engine operation as it can fail because of pressure increase.