A catalytic converter is a device that is used for reducing the toxicity of the emissions that are released from the internal combustion chamber of the engines. Catalytic converters are used in various things like generators, forklifts, trains, buses and cars. It involves a chemical reaction where the toxic combustion of the by-products is converted into less-toxic products. However, there are many damages caused to the catalytic converter such as:
Poisoning
A catalytic poisoning will occur only when the catalytic converter is exposed to the exhaust that contains the substance coat and the working surface. The most notable contamination that occurs in catalytic converter is lead, so vehicle with catalytic converters should always run on unleaded gasoline.
Meltdown
Under any condition if there is high level of unburned hydrocarbons or partially burned fluid that reaches the converter, then it will elevate the temperature. This will eventually result in meltdown and the resultant catalytic converter will be deactivated.
Now due to the function and control of the catalytic converter, the jurisdiction has passed a new legislature, where there will be an on-board diagnostic system to monitor the functioning of the catalytic converter. There will be several forms for the on-board diagnostic system like, temperature sensors, oxygen sensors and NOx sensors. However, if the catalytic converter of your car is not functioning properly, in spite of these sensors, then it a signal to replace the catalytic converter.
Here are some simple steps on how to replace catalytic converter:
Things Required:
- Lubricant
- Adjustable wrench
- Rubber mallet
- Automotive exhaust patch kit
Steps:
Remove the old catalytic converter:
- Take a jack stand and start jacking up your car. You will have to use two jacks in the front of the car and two on the rear side of the car. Ensure that you have stabilized the jack stands and that they are places on the jack support points.
- Lubricate the clamps and bolts, by doing this it will be easier to remove them later. Take out all the bolts and keep them in a safe place. The bolts can be removed by an adjustable wrench, since the bolt size will vary in every vehicle. Once you have removed the bolts, then you can start removing the hat shields and clamps.
- Now, pull the catalytic converter out of the vehicle. You might have to move it slightly, so that it loosens from the pipes that are connected to it. In some situations, you will have to slightly tap the catalytic converter with the help of a rubber mallet to remove it.
- Check the pipes that are connected to the catalytic converter for damages. If you notice any kind of damage on the pipes, then you will have to replace them as well. If you see only a small puncture or crack, then you can patch it easily by using an exhaust patch kit, which you can find easily in the automotive repair store. Take a clean cloth and wipe the edge of both the pipes, which you will be attaching to the new catalytic converter.
Replacing the catalytic converter:
- Now, the first step in replacing the catalytic converter is, attaching the new converter to the exhaust pipe, which comes out from the front side of the vehicle. You might have to tap it lightly with the rubber mallet, so that it is fastened on the exhaust pipe.
- The next step for replacing the catalytic converter will be aligning the exhaust pipe, which comes from the vehicle to the hole on the back of the catalytic converter. You might have to push the pipe slightly so that it is aligned properly. Once it has been aligned perfectly, then you can push the pipe inside the catalytic converter just about one inch.
- Replace the heat plate, if you have removed it during the process of replacing the catalytic converter and then replace all the bolts. Make sure that all the bolts are attached properly.
- Come out from underneath the vehicle and start the engine. Check that there are no leaks when you replace the catalytic converter. The most common place for leaks will be at the exhaust pipes meeting the catalytic converters. If there is a leak, then patch it with an exhaust patch kit. Check for the leaks again once the patch has been set.
- Now you are done with replacing the catalytic converter. Therefore, loosen the jack stands and start lowering your vehicle.
- After this, you will have to document that you have replaced the catalytic converter of your vehicle in the auto maintenance of your vehicle. This process is important, because in some states you will have to report this during automotive inspection.
Tips and Warnings:
Never try to replace the catalytic converter, which was welded on until you have knowledge about welding or torch cutting. Always remember that catalytic converter is very close to fuel lines and flammable components, so trying to weld this area can be dangerous.
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