An essential part of both modern and older cars. The task of the catalyst is clear in the given direction and is related to the fact that it eliminates the amount of pollutants that are released from the exhaust during driving. Whether the values are correct and within the required limits is determined by the emissions measurement as part of the technical inspection. Here it must be said that if the car does not pass the given measurement, the emissions exceed the tolerable and therefore the set limit. In the given direction, it is necessary to find out the problem. In many cases, this is connected to the catalyst. The ideal repair procedure is certainly its replacement itself, which is the simplest procedure and in many cases also the most feasible, just as it can also be the cheapest procedure.
What catalyst can be used?
It should be known that if the catalyst is replaced, it is possible to take two specific paths. If we start with the number one route, we have to say that this is a catalytic converter that is specifically designed for the type of car we drive. We usually buy it at a spare parts store or at an authorized service center. It is enough to say the specific type of car and then it is not a problem to buy a catalytic converter. We are therefore sure above all that it will be a product fully compatible with our car. A minor negative of this route can certainly be that in the case of an original catalyst, it will be necessary to expect a higher price. On the other hand, there is still the possibility that we can buy a catalytic converter directly intended for our car, but it will be made by another manufacturer, thanks to which we can save money.
But there is also way number two. If we take a closer look at it, we must say that it is a variant that we refer to as universal. In this direction, it is possible to buy a so-called universal catalyst. It is also possible to exchange it without any problems. Here, however, we look at two of its main parameters. The first is the volume of the engine of our car, while the second parameter is nothing more than the overall dimensions of the existing one. This option will logically work out better from a financial point of view, but on the other hand, it may fall behind in the features that are associated with truly first-class and trouble-free functionality. Today, however, development is still moving forward, so it can be said that there is usually nothing to worry about in terms of functionality.
Preparing for the exchange
The first step of the exchange is definitely to secure the car and place it either on a jack or on an assembly pit. If we have everything ready to replace, it is necessary to lift the hood and disconnect the battery. At this moment, we can finally get under the car itself and find the place where the catalyst is specifically located. Once the site and the catalyst are identified, it is possible to move on to the most important. That is, to the exchange itself as such. It is good to do this especially when we know how to do it and we have enough time to possibly maintain the necessary breaks, which are related, for example, to the cooling down of the individual parts of the exhaust system.
Replacing the catalyst
It is definitely not a complicated procedure if we have at least a little experience and also the knowledge and necessary tools. The replacement is related to the fact that the current catalyst naturally cannot be simply unscrewed or removed. It is a natural part of the exhaust pipe, so you need to start with the step of cutting it out. It is definitely necessary to proceed precisely and cut out just and only the catalyst as such. If we succeed, it can be removed without difficulty. Since it doesn’t serve its purpose, we definitely don’t need to remind anyone that the best way to deal with it is to throw it away.
All you have to do is put a new catalyst in its place. Since the existing one has been cut out, we have to think about the fact that we cannot do without the need to weld this new one in place. It’s not a complicated procedure either, especially for someone who knows what they’re doing. Once the new catalytic converter is in place, the most difficult steps of the replacement are definitely over and we have the advantage of being able to do a few final steps.
Pay attention to the orientation
Let us also remind you that several very important procedures must be followed when welding a new catalyst. These are connected to the direction of flow of the pollutants themselves, i.e. the waste products. Thus, the catalyst should be installed correctly. We can recognize its correct orientation relatively easily. On its packaging, we should find an arrow that indicates how to boil it, taking into account the direction in which the exhaust gases flow in the exhaust pipe. This may be the only major problem that may befall us. It is therefore necessary to be cautious.
The catalyst must be fired
Once the new catalytic converter is in place, all you have to do is reconnect the battery and then prepare the car for driving. As soon as this happens, you have to think about the fact that you will not have to burn the catalyst. What is it about? The point is that it is necessary to drive several tens of kilometers. In particular, it should be enough to drive about 50 kilometers, during which the new catalyst will burn out sufficiently and will then serve really as it should. Logically, let’s also not forget that if you want to be sure, it is not a problem to drive it more.
As soon as the catalyst is sufficiently burnt, it is possible to come again for the emissions measurement. If the assembly was done correctly and the exhaust problem was in the specific catalytic converter, we should be confident that everything will work exactly as we want it to. So the measured values will be the really correct ones and we will be sure to pass. And without any problems.
