How to Clean the Three-Way Catalytic Converter?
2 Answers
The cleaning method for the three-way catalytic converter is the drip-feed cleaning method. This method involves connecting a plastic hose to the engine's vacuum solenoid valve and using the air pressure in the hollow tube to draw the cleaning agent from the infusion bottle into the engine. As the cleaning agent is expelled through the exhaust pipe, it cleans the three-way catalytic converter. The three-way catalytic converter generally consists of four parts: the shell, the vibration damping layer, the substrate, and the catalyst coating. Below are the detailed descriptions: Shell: Made of stainless steel to prevent the shedding of oxide scales, which could clog the substrate. Vibration damping layer: Composed of gaskets or wire mesh pads, it serves to seal, insulate, and secure the substrate. To protect the substrate from damage caused by vibration, thermal deformation, and other factors, the gasket is made of expanded mica and aluminum silicate fibers, bonded together with adhesive. Substrate: Made of honeycomb-shaped ceramic material, though many are also made of metal (including stainless steel). Catalyst: Composed of precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium, sprayed onto the substrate to form the purifying agent.
Cleaning the catalytic converter is indeed a meticulous task. I've tried it several times myself. The key is to prepare the special cleaner, which is usually available at gas stations or auto parts stores. You pour it directly into the fuel tank, then take the car for a high-speed drive to let the engine run at high RPM for a while. The high-temperature exhaust flow will help melt the carbon deposits. Don't forget to check if the warning light is on before cleaning - if it is, it means the converter is severely clogged and needs professional repair first. When doing it yourself, avoid disassembling the component as it's quite delicate; accidentally damaging it could mean costly replacement. Maintaining a clean fuel system is also crucial - using high-quality gasoline and avoiding fuel from small refineries can significantly extend the catalytic converter's lifespan.
