Tips for the replacement of catalytic converters and particle filters

There are many reasons why it is necessary to replace the catalytic converter blows that cause the breakage of the substrate, loss of subjection of this by degradation of the blanket, problems in the injection, aging of the catalytic converter and loss of its efficiency, use of fuels and oils inadequate, ...

In addition, the failure of the peripheral elements that allow the control and regeneration of the filter or catalytic converter, lambda probes, temperature probes, EGR valve, differential pressure sensor, and other elements that result in the sealing of the filter can occur, even causing loss of engine power.

A continuous conduction by short routes, which do not allow to reach the suitable temperature, and that cuts the regeneration can also cause problems with the filter. In the case of filters it is especially important to detect the origin of the problem since otherwise, the replacement of the filter will not solve it, and in a short time, it will be repeated again.

For this reason, it will be necessary to check the presence of faults in other elements of the vehicle that could affect the correct operation of the filter and catalytic converter by means of a diagnostic equipment.

For the disassembly of catalytic converters and filters we must:

1. Apply loosening to the clamping bolts and nuts.

    

2. Disassemble lambda sensors, temperature probes and/or pressure tubes.

    

3. Release other mooring elements such as supports and hooks.

    

4. Loosen clamping screws and remove.

     

Loosen clamping screws and disassemble For the assembly of catalytic converters and filters we must:

1. First of all, we must make sure that the spare part we have purchased corresponds to the make, model, engine, power and year of manufacture of our vehicle.

2. Clean the closing or coupling elements (flanges, rings, manifolds, ...) and make sure there are no remains of joints or rings.

    

3. Check that there is no possible foreign debris downstream of the element that we are going to replace.

4. Place joints and rings and fit the new catalytic converter or filter in the correct position, applying the necessary torque to the clamping elements, to ensure a good seal.

    

5. Place and tighten probes, pressure tubes supports...

    

6. Start and check that there are no leaks in the connecting elements.

7. Both in catalytic converters and in filters it will be necessary to connect to the Vehicle Management control unit in order to erase the possible error codes that have been produced, after correcting the problems that caused them.

8. In the case of particle filters, and following the manufacturer's instructions, it may be necessary to zero the mass of particles and/or perform a forced regeneration for the proper functioning of the filter.

    

NOTE:

"Since the source of the filter or catalytic converter failure is most likely located in other elements or systems of the vehicle, to ensure a correct resolution of the problem, it will be necessary to go to a competent workshop with the appropriate tools and knowledge, which in many cases require the use of specific electronic equipment, solve the cause of the failure and guarantee a correct replacement of the filter or catalytic converter. Otherwise, the real problem will not be solved and its consequences will be repeated in a short time "