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Catalytic
Converters
Poor
performance? Reduced
fuel mileage? Lack of
power?
You
may need your Catalytic Converter tested!
We
stock a complete line of universal and direct fit converters. A universal
converter can be a cost saving option over a direct fit converter. Both
varieties of converters conform to all Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.
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Engine
Tune-Up Required
A number of
problems could occur to the catalytic converter as the result of an engine that
is out of tune. Any time an engine is operating outside proper specifications,
unnecessary wear and damage may be caused to the the catalytic converter as well
as the engine itself. The damage is often the result of an incorrect air/fuel
mixture, incorrect timing, or misfiring spark plugs. Any of these conditions could
lead to a catalytic converter failure or worse.
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Excess
Fuel Entering Exhaust
The fuel that powers your vehicle is meant to burn
in the combustion chamber only. Any fuel that leaves the combustion chamber unburned
will enter the exhaust system and light-off when it reaches the catalytic converter.
This can super-heat the converter far above normal operating conditions and cause
a melt down. Possible causes are an incorrect fuel mixture, incorrect timing,
corroded spark plugs, a faulty oxygen sensor, sticking float, faulty fuel injector
or a malfunctioning check valve.
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Oil
or Antifreeze Entering Exhaust
Oil or Antifreeze entering the exhaust system can
block the air passages by creating a heavy carbon soot that coats the ceramic
catalyst. These heavy carbon deposits create two problems. First, the carbon
deposits prevent the catalytic converter from reducing harmful emission in the
exhaust flow. And second, the carbon deposits clog the pores in the ceramic catalyst
and block exhaust flow, increasing backpressure and causing heat and exhaust to
back up into the engine compartment. Your engine may actually draw burnt exhaust
gasses back into the combustion chamber and dilute the efficiency of the next
burn cycle. The result is a loss of power and overheated engine components. Possible
causes are worn piston rings, faulty valve seals, failed gaskets or warped engine
components.
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Deteriorated
Spark Plug or Spark Plug Wires
Spark plugs that don't fire or misfire cause unburned
fuel to enter the exhaust system. The unburned fuel ignites inside the converter
and could result in a partial or complete melt down of the ceramic catalyst. Spark
plugs and spark plug wires should be checked regularly and replaced if damaged
or if wires are worn or cracked.
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Oxygen
Sensor Not Functioning Properly
An oxygen sensor failure can lead to incorrect readings
of exhaust gasses. The faulty sensor can cause a too rich or too lean condition.
Too rich and the catalyst can melt down. Too lean and the converter is unable
to convert the hydrocarbons into safe elements and may not pass a state inspection.
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Road Damage
or Broken Hangers
The
ceramic catalyst inside a catalytic converter is made from a lightweight, thin-walled,
fragile material. It is protected by a dense, insulating mat. This mat holds the
catalyst in place and provides moderate protection against damage. However, rock
or road debris striking the converter or improper or broken exhaust system support
can cause a catalyst fracture. Once the ceramic catalyst is fractured, the
broken pieces become loose and rattle around and break up into smaller pieces.
Flow is interrupted and backpressure in the exhaust system increases. This leads
to heat build up and loss of power. Possible causes of a catalyst fracture are
road debris striking the converter, loose or broken hangers, potholes or off-road
driving.
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WARNING:
A fine up to
$2,500.00 can be assessed for removing or tampering
with a properly functioning catalytic converter.
Six
locations to serve you! Select store location for address and phone information.
Open Monday - Friday 8AM-5PM and Saturday 8AM-4PM.
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