catalytic converter - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

tango7 · 05-01-2004, 14:59

Could someone out ther explain to me what does a catalytic converter do ,and what does it consist of , what are the parts in its construction. ? thank you.

John_xr6 · 05-01-2004, 15:38

tha catalatic convertor is there to turn harmful exhaust gasses from the motor into safer and cleaner air for the ozone layer. i dont know how its made or whats in it but i know you need it there if you dont want to cop a big fine from the EPA.

Heritage · 05-01-2004, 19:25

its got like a honeycomb stuff in it, and the fine is ENORMOUS.

juarez · 05-01-2004, 22:24

The cat consists of two honeycomb thingies, consisting of a ceramic structure coated with a metal catalyst, usually platinum, rhodium and/or palladium... the honeycombs are heated up to somewhere around 500-600 degrees celcius, at which point they start to break down the various gases passing through them (eg. 2NO which is very bad for people / environment becomes N2 + O2 which is basically what air made of anyway...)...

The exact chemistry of it all is probably a lot more complex.. but you get the idea

Apparently the fine is around $20,000.. not worth the risk even if it doubles engine power output