Exhaust System - Overview. Description and Operation

Overview

NOTICE: Do not use leaded fuel in a vehicle equipped with a catalytic converter. In a vehicle that is repeatedly fueled with leaded fuel, lead will accumulate in the catalytic converter and completely plug the catalyst. Lead reacts with the platinum, becoming a catalyst "poison". Continued use of leaded fuel can damage the catalyst and render it useless. Lead deposits in the catalytic converter can also harden the catalyst, causing excessive back pressure in the exhaust system and possible engine damage.

NOTICE: Extremely high temperatures of 1100 °C or higher, caused by misfires or an overly rich air-fuel mixture, will cause the ceramic substrate to sinter or melt, destroying the catalytic converter. Do not continue to operate the vehicle if the engine misfires, loses power, or shows other abnormal operating conditions, such as engine overheating and backfiring.

NOTICE: Do not use oil-based or grease-based lubricants to clean the insulators. These lubricants can damage the rubber. This may cause the insulator to separate from the exhaust hanger bracket during vehicle operation.

The exhaust system provides an exit for exhaust gases and reduces noise as the exhaust gases pass through the catalytic converters and the muffler assembly. The catalytic converters also play an important role in reducing air pollution.

The exhaust system consists of:

• One-piece catalytic converter with flexible exhaust pipe.

• Resonator.

• Muffler and tailpipe assembly with insulators.

The catalytic converter plays an important role in the emission control system by acting as a gas reactor. Its function is to accelerate the chemical reaction of exhaust gas components, releasing heat, to reduce air pollution.

The catalyst material inside the catalytic converter consists of a ceramic substrate.

The catalytic converter is designed for a long service life. No maintenance is required.

The heat shields and insulators attached to the underbody protect the vehicle from exhaust system heat and must be inspected regularly to ensure they are not dented or displaced. If a heat shield or insulator is damaged or shows signs of wear, install a new heat shield or insulator. Heat shields and insulators are installed on the muffler, tailpipe, resonator and catalytic converter pipe separately.

Some exhaust system fasteners must be discarded and new ones installed, as specified in the procedures. Discard all damaged or heavily rusted fasteners and install new ones as necessary. Some exhaust pipe fasteners are of the prevailing-torque design. Use only new fasteners with the same part number as the original. Tighten the fasteners to the specified torque during assembly to ensure proper retention of the exhaust components.