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Description & Operation: Notes

The catalytic converter(s) is installed in the exhaust system in front of the muffler so that all exhaust gas must pass through the converter(s). The converter is a stainless steel muffler shopped device that reduces exhaust emissions. There are two types of catalytic converters, oxidation and three-way converters. The oxidation converter contains material coated with platinum and palladium. This catalyst reduces hydrocarbons (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions. The three-way converters contain material coated with platinum, palladium and rhodium. This catalyst reduces hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and oxides of nitrogen (NOx).

The material inside the converter is one of two types; coated one piece honeycombed block that is non-serviceable, or small beads of material that are coated with catalyst and are serviceable.

Fig 1: Cutaway of Oxidation Catalytic Converter (Chrysler Corp. Shown, Ford Motor Co. Similar)
G09343040Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
NOTE: Use unleaded fuel only on vehicles using catalytic converters. If leaded fuel is used, the Tetra Eythel Lead will coat the palladium, platinum and rhodium, rendering these catalysts inoperative. If this happens, the converter must be replaced.