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You failed your emissions test - could your Chrysler catalytic converter be at fault? To diagnose whether your catalytic converter is causing your exhaust problems, you first need to read the emissions test results for clues about what pollutants are being emitted. Often, states rely on onboard diagnostic systems in the car to determine if there is a problem with the exhaust system; you can consult the code book and your Chrysler repair manual for clues about the results. Sometimes checking out the catalytic converter itself will provide clues of failure; however, removing it for inspection is too difficult. Instead, some DIYers will pound the catalytic converter with a fist, then listen for the noise of rattling. The rattling is an indication that the honeycomb within the catalytic converter, where the exhaust gases flow through, has deteriorated. If you have access to a laser pyrometer, then test the temperatures of the inlet and outlet areas of the catalytic converter. If the part is working correctly, the inlet will be much hotter than the outlet. You can measure the back pressure of the exhaust system, which will tell you if the system is clogged. If the pressure indicates blockage, then disconnect the intermediate exhaust pipe from the catalytic converter, and check the on board diagnostics and the pressure again to see how well the system is running. Take the extra time to pinpoint the problem in your exhaust system, and if it stems from your Chrysler catalytic converter, purchase a new one from our site.
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