
The catalytic converter can only reduce exhaust emissions if:
a. The engine is designed for use with a catalytic converter and unleaded petrol, since lead contaminates the
catalytic coating and prevents it from functioning.
b. It is integrated in the exhaust system in such a way that the exhaust emission conversion occurs in the most
effective temperature range – in the vicinity of 600 degrees Celsius.
c. The c atalysts function eff ectively within certain air /fuel ratios only. As a consequence, the air /fuel ratio supplied
to the engine mu st be controlled within strict lim its for emission c onversion and long converter lif e. This contr ol
is off ered by oper ating under a closed loop mix ture control system with dual oxygen sensors. F or details of the
oxygen sensors refer to Section 6C1-3, 2.7 OXYGEN SENSORS.
The catalytic converter can be damaged, or rendered ineffective:
a. If operated outside the limits of the closed loop mixture control system, or
b. If the engine burns excessive amounts of oil, or
c. If the exhaust temperature at the converter is too high (above 850 degrees Celsius).
SERVICE NOTES
1. Do not operate the vehicle with leaded petrol. Lead will contaminate the ceramic monolith.
2. Do not drop the catalytic converter as it will damage the ceramic monolith.
3. Replace the catalytic converter if it is damaged.
4. Do not allow water, oil or fuel to enter the converter as the ceramic monolith will be contaminated.
5. Do not use engine additives. Many additives contain phosphorous that will contaminate the ceramic monolith.
6. In order to prevent the catalytic converter from overheating, the following sequence must be followed when
carrying out a cylinder balance test:
a. Maximum time each cylinder may be switched off is 8 seconds.
b. Pause for at least 8 seconds between each switch off.
c. If repeating a cylinder balance test, allow the engine to idle for a least 60 seconds before retesting.
7. The vehicle m ust not be star ted by pushing or towing, as unburned fuel c ould reach the catalytic converter and
destroy the ceramic monolith. Always use jumper leads to start a vehicle that has a flat or defective battery.
8. W hen carrying out a compression test, remove fuse F34 from the engine compartment relay housing, refer to
Section 6A1-1, 2.6 COMPRESSION TEST. This prevents fuel injection and ignition during engine cranking.
9. Do not drive the vehicle with the engine misfiring or with the spark plug leads disconnected as the catalytic
converter will overheat.
10. Do not coast downhill with the engine misfiring or with the spark plug leads disconnected.
11. T he catalytic converter is integrated with the exhaust system. For removal and installation instructions, refer to
Section 8B EXHAUST SYSTEM.