Tech News: Keys to a Successful Converter Replacement

Keys to a Successful Converter Replacement:

• CHECK FOR TSB’s:  
• Many manufacturers, Subaru especially, have TSB’s or Owners Letters informing them of ECM software updates. Many TSB’s address already known problems with the engine management systems relating to Catalyst Efficiency codes saving installers time and directing them to an easy fix for known problems. 
• CHECK OR REPLACE OXYGEN SENSORS:
• Oxygen Sensors and Air/Fuel Ratio Sensors are a critical component of the engine management system. The ECM relies on fast accurate data from these sensors and they are a service maintenance item requiring replacement at about 80,000 miles.
• DECARBONIZE ALL ENGINES OVER 80,000 MILES: o Many of today’s high mileage vehicles have accumulated excess carbon over the vehicles life. This carbon increases NOx levels AND migrates into the Converter’s substrate inhibiting its ability to both store oxygen and reach proper operating temperatures. Vehicles exhibiting signs of excess carbon MUST have an engine de-carbonizing service performed before replacing the Catalytic Converter.

Condition: Many installers struggle with PO420 & PO430 codes when replacing Catalytic Converters. Sending parts back to you needlessly or asking you to deliver a replacement part needlessly hurts profitability and costs you money.

Solution: Training and proper Diagnosis. The Exhaust Warehouse offers Technical Training both at the Sales & Counter level and the Professional Installer level. Installers who address the reason that the Original Equipment Converter failed greatly reduce or eliminate warranty replacements.

Results: Installers who do these three things BEFORE replacing a Catalytic Converter GREATLY reduce or eliminate warranty returns. Distributors who take advantage of Technical Training increase sales and increase profitability.