What are the effective cleaning methods for a three-way catalytic converter?
2 Answers
Effective cleaning methods for a three-way catalytic converter are: 1. Start the engine and wait until the coolant temperature normalizes before turning off the engine; 2. Pour the cleaning solution into a specialized device, then connect the device's output connector to the vacuum tube; 3. Restart the engine, maintain the RPM at around 2000 rpm, open the flow control valve, and slowly drip the cleaning solution into the intake manifold; 4. After cleaning, keep the engine running for three to five minutes. The benefits of cleaning the three-way catalytic converter include: 1. Helps improve the vehicle's engine performance; 2. Reduces frequent alarms from the exhaust system's oxygen sensor. The three-way catalytic converter transforms harmful gases such as CO, HC, and NOx emitted from vehicle exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions.
The catalytic converter in my old car got clogged, and replacing it was too expensive, so I tried cleaning it. The most reliable method is the removal cleaning, which requires taking the whole converter to a repair shop to soak it in oxalic acid solution for a few hours, dissolving the sulfide deposits. There's also a non-removal method called 'drip cleaning,' where mechanics connect a device to the exhaust pipe to pour in a special cleaner while revving the engine. I've tried fuel additives myself, but the effect is limited—only good for preventing minor clogs. After cleaning, remember to drive at high speed to raise the exhaust temperature, which helps solidify the cleaning effect. Now, I add a bottle of cleaner every 30,000 kilometers as a preventive measure, which is much cheaper than repairing it later.
