Not because you have failed an emission test, it does not mean that you would have to replace your catalytic converter. Make sure that you have checked the condition of the catalytic converter first, before actually performing the exam. Hence, here are a few tips on how to prepare for the very important emission test.

Make sure the engine and catalytic converter are at operating procedure. It is best advised to drive the vehicle around first for at least 15 minutes, leave it running while waiting for its turn to be tested while holding a box of donuts, and ask the tech to roll it on the “dyno” for 30 extra seconds before settling it into the proper test speed. Do not let the car sit for a while and then try to prepare it quickly for testing, because then the catalytic converter would not be ready for the first phase of the test yet.

Other preparations include changing the oil, renewing the air filter, and for more difficult cases, cleaning the combustion chamber. One must know that dirty motor oil contains a lot of combustion byproducts, and that the crankcase vapors scavenged by the ventilation system bring in the hydrocarbons to the combustion chambers. On the other hand, a dry air filter typically raises carbon monoxide more than hydrocarbons, but it’s still a good idea to check it frequently, especially to enhance fuel economy.

Constant cleaning of the combustion chamber or the exhaust system is highly advised since it has been proven to be effective in reducing hydrocarbons. Here is how to do it: Locate a small diameter vacuum hose that is active at idle/part throttle. Next, add a temporary two-foot extension to the hose and fill a drinking glass with tap water. With the engine at operating temperature, have a helper hold engine speed at 1,500-2,000 rpm, while allowing the hose to slowly drink the glass of water. It is important that the water be ingested slowly, taking about 30 seconds or more to consume the glass. Otherwise, engine damage could occur.

This entry was posted on Friday, August 3rd, 2007 at 8:39 pm and is filed under Maintenance. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.