Exhaust System: Service Precautions

WARNING: EXHAUST GASES CONTAIN CARBON MONOXIDE WHICH CAN BE HARMFUL TO HEALTH AND ARE POTENTIALLY LETHAL. EXHAUST SYSTEM LEAKS SHOULD BE SERVICED IMMEDIATELY. NEVER OPERATE THE ENGINE IN ENCLOSED AREAS.

CAUTION: Leaded fuel must not be used in a vehicle fitted with a three way catalytic converter - the lead will damage the catalyst.

The following precautions must be observed when operating a vehicle equipped with three way catalytic converters.

If a vehicle is continually misfueled:
- the lead in the fuel will be deposited in the converter and completely blanket the catalyst.
- lead combines chemically with platinum to poison the catalyst.
- continuous use of leaded fuels can totally destroy the catalyst and render the converter useless.

The addition of lead to the converter can also solidify the catalyst, causing:
- excessive back pressure in the exhaust system.
- possible engine damage.

Extremely high temperatures of 1100° C (2012° F) or over, due to misfiring or over-rich fuel/air mixture, will cause the ceramic base to sinter or burn, destroying the converter.

The three way catalytic converters have been designed to provide a long service life. No maintenance is necessary for the three way catalytic converters. However, the following conditions must be avoided:
- Do not drive downhill with the gears engaged and the ignition switch OFF.
- Do not drive with engine misfiring.
- Do not run the engine continuously with a misfiring spark plug. When idling is unstable or when the engine lacks power, refer to Powertrain Management.
- Do not park or stop the vehicle over combustible material. If the vehicle is parked or stopped over combustible material such as dry grass, the material may be ignited by the high temperature of the three way catalytic converter and muffler.