Catalytic Converters
It is true that very few people actually understand this subject or even know how a “Cat” looks like.
Over the past few years, catalytic converters have been a point of discussion in many workshops, group debates, arguments, etc. Herewith some useful information on how catalytic converters work:
The engine’s exhaust emissions can be influenced at three points.
- The first option is to adjust the mixture formation.
- The second possibility is internal modifications in the engine itself (such as optimised combustion-chamber design).
- The third alternative is post-combustion exhaust-gas treatment downstream from the engine.
The chief priority on the engine’s exhaust side is to complete combustion of the remaining unburned fuel.
The converter supports secondary combustion of Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Hydrocarbon (HC) to form non-toxic carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O) while simultaneously reducing the exhaust-gas-borne nitrous oxides (N2O) to neutral nitrogen (N).
Catalytic treatment is much more effective than processes such as purely thermal secondary combustion in which pollutants are burned out in a hot flame.
The catalytic converter assists in converting over 90% of the pollutants into harmless constituents.
The three-way catalytic converter simultaneously reduces all three pollutants – CO2, HC and N2O. It features a tubular ceramic support surface with a noble metal coating that usually consists of platinum and rhodium. The platinum and rhodium accelerate the chemical reduction of pollutants as the exhaust gas flows through the unit.
A blocked or destroyed catalytic converter will definitely reduce the power output and negatively influence fuel consumption. If a catalytic converter is installed, it is essential that unleaded fuel is used, as lead destroys the catalytic properties of the noble metals.
Most people do not know what a CAT is or even that they have a CAT until there is an issue with their motor vehicle. Such an issue can be revealed by way of a diagnostic scan relating to the CAT or O2 sensor. At Steves Auto Clinic we pride ourselves on having the latest diagnostic and test equipment to identify issues beforehand, thereby limiting any unforeseen expenses. Once we have confirmed that the issue is related to the CAT, we can most of the time assist the client with various options.
Please see these options listed below:
- DE-CAT
- CAT Removal
- Manifold replacement
- Mini CAT
- Aftermarket CAT replacement
- Dastek CAT Fooling
Phone your nearest Steves Auto Clinic for applicable options for your vehicle.
After Market Cat Replacement
When dealing with the replacement of your vehicle’s CAT, Steves Auto Clinic prides itself with aligning itself with MagnaFlow. These CATs are imported from the USA with various CATs to suit different applications. These CATs are designed with MagnaFlow’s superior exhaust technology and each converter is designed to keep the engine light off. MagnaFlow prides itself as the industry leader and boasts the manufacturer award for 2017 at Sema (Specialty Equipment Market Association). This was achieved with their in-house manufacturing in the USA.
Mini CAT
A Mini CAT is the cheapest form of trying to duplicate the efficacy of the CAT once it’s been removed. Often, when removing a CAT, the vehicle’s engine management system will register that the CAT has been removed and it will then place the vehicle into limp mode. Our state of the art diagnostic equipment and testing facilities allows us to monitor the signal and we can then attempt to fool the engine management system with a Mini CAT. The MINI CAT is made with a stainless steel foil insert that can resist high temperatures. These high-temperature inserts are what creates the same high flow and volume over the sensor to replicate a fully operational CAT. Contact your closest Steves Auto Clinic dealer to ask if this option is applicable to your vehicle.
Contact your nearest Steve Auto Clinic branch today for more information on how they can repair/replace your vehicle’s catalytic converter.