What is the method for cleaning a three-way catalytic converter?
2 Answers
Here are the methods for cleaning a three-way catalytic converter: 1. Add cleaning agent to the fuel tank. The advantage is that it is inexpensive and easy to operate, as you only need to add this type of cleaning agent directly to the fuel tank. However, the cleaning effect of such products on the three-way catalytic converter is minimal. 2. Drip cleaning. Drip cleaning is also known as no-disassembly cleaning. The advantage is that it does not require disassembling the three-way catalytic converter, but the disadvantage is that the cost of purchasing cleaning equipment is high, and the cleaning effect is not ideal. Extended information: The principle of cleaning a three-way catalytic converter is to create a high-temperature oxidation environment inside the three-way catalytic converter by drawing the cleaning agent into the combustion chamber through the intake vacuum suction and burning it. This achieves the purpose of restoring the activity of the rare metals on the three-way catalytic converter through redox reactions.
Last time my old car's check engine light came on, the 4S shop said the catalytic converter was clogged and wanted me to spend 2,000 to replace it. I figured I'd try cleaning it first, so I bought a special cleaner. The process was actually simple: after warming up the engine, pour the cleaner into the fuel tank and run through a full tank of gas—the exhaust smell was really strong! After a highway run, I noticed the throttle felt lighter. But I must remind everyone, this trick only works for minor clogs; if the ceramic substrate inside the converter is broken, you'll still need a new one. For regular maintenance, remember not to use low-quality gas from shady stations—that stuff clogs catalytic converters like crazy.