Dodge ram truck 3500 1996 Service Manual page 1204

11 - 2 EXHAUST SYSTEM AND INTAKE MANIFOLD
G E N E R A L I N F O R M A T I O N (Continued)
B R
5.9L (HEAVY DUTY)
8.0L
J9511-4
Fig. 1 Exhaust System—i
Excessive heat can result in bulging or other distor­
tion, but excessive heat will not be the fault of the
converter. If unburned fuel enters the converter, over­
heating may occur. I f a converter is heat-damaged,
correct the cause of the damage at the same time the
converter is replaced. Also, inspect all other compo­
nents of the exhaust system for heat damage.
Unleaded gasoline must be used in gas engines to
avoid contaminating the catalyst core.
EXHAUST HEAT SHIELDS
Exhaust heat shields are needed to protect both
the vehicle and the environment from the high tem­
peratures developed by the catalytic converter. The
combustion reaction facilitated by the catalyst
soiine Engines (Typical)
releases additional heat in the exhaust system.
Under severe operating conditions, the temperature
increases i n the area of the reactor. Such conditions
can exist when the engine misfires or otherwise does
not operate at peak efficiency. DO NOT remove spark
plug wires from plugs or by any other means short
out cylinders. Failure of the catalytic converter can
occur due to a temperature increase caused by
unburned fuel passing through the converter.
DO NOT allow the engine to operate at fast idle for
extended periods (over 5 minutes). This condition
may result in excessive temperatures in the exhaust
system and on the floor pan.