How to Clean a Three-Way Catalytic Converter with Oxalic Acid?
3 Answers
Using oxalic acid to clean a three-way catalytic converter involves the following steps: 1. Lift the vehicle to the normal working height using a lift; 2. Remove the three-way catalytic converter from the vehicle; 3. Prepare the oxalic acid solution using specialized maintenance equipment; 4. Soak the three-way catalytic converter in the prepared oxalic acid solution; 5. Rinse off any remaining oxalic acid solution and impurities with clean water. The function of the three-way catalytic converter is to convert harmful gases such as carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides in the vehicle's exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions. It is an important external purification device installed in the vehicle's exhaust system.
I've had several experiences cleaning the catalytic converter with oxalic acid myself, after all, I loved DIY and saving money when I was younger. First, turn off the engine and let it cool down, then carefully remove the catalytic converter with a wrench. The oxalic acid needs to be diluted with water to a concentration of 5%-10%, otherwise, it's too strong and can cause corrosion. I once accidentally used too high a concentration and nearly damaged the parts. Wear rubber gloves and goggles, find a well-ventilated area, and soak the catalytic converter in the solution for a few hours. After soaking, rinse it thoroughly with plenty of water, let it dry, then reinstall it and test. It usually helps remove carbon deposits and improves exhaust flow. However, be warned: oxalic acid is toxic and can harm your skin, and the catalytic converter has a precious metal coating—if damaged, you'll need to replace it, which costs more. I suggest starting by checking if the catalytic converter is clogged, like looking for blackened exhaust, before deciding on the cleaning method. In short, DIY can be fun but risky, and for newer car models, it's safer to let a professional handle it.
As someone who usually takes care of the family car myself, I'm very concerned about the dangers during the cleaning process. Before using oxalic acid, I make sure the environment is safe by laying down cloth in the garage and preparing a first aid kit. I wear thick gloves and protect my face to avoid splashes, as oxalic acid is a chemical that can burn the skin. When removing the catalytic converter, I'm careful not to lose any screws. After that, I dilute the solution to about 8%, as a higher concentration can easily damage the internal structure of the catalytic converter. After soaking, it's essential to rinse thoroughly—I once didn't rinse properly, and the residue caused rust problems later. Additionally, oxalic acid's effectiveness is unstable, sometimes failing to clean carbon deposits completely, so I switched to professional cleaning agents for more reliable results. The whole process is time-consuming and tiring, and if the catalytic converter fails, it increases exhaust pollution, which isn't good for children's health. I make it a habit to regularly check the exhaust condition to prevent blockages and avoid the hassle of cleaning.
