Catalytic
Converters
Poor performance? Reduced
fuel mileage? Lack of power?
You may need your Catalytic Converter
Replaced!
We use 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.
Hi-Flow Catalysts available for certain models.
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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 $50,00.00 can be assessed for removing or tampering
with a properly functioning catalytic converter.
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