Inspection; Catalytic Converter - Right; Removal - Right Side - Dodge Intrepid Service Manual

LH
CATALYTIC CONVERTER(S) (Continued)
deterioration of the catalyst core can result in exces-
sively high emission levels, noise complaints, and
exhaust restrictions.
The use of catalysts also involves some non-auto-
motive problems. Unleaded gasoline must be used to
avoid poisoning the catalyst core. Do not allow engine
to operate above 1200 RPM in neutral for extended
periods over 5 minutes. This condition may result in
excessive exhaust system/floor pan temperatures
because of no air movement under the vehicle.
CAUTION: Due to exterior physical similarities of
some catalytic converters with pipe assemblies,
extreme care should be taken with replacement
parts. There are internal converter differences
required in some parts of the country (particularly
vehicles built for States with strict emission
requirements).

INSPECTION

WARNING: THE NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERA-
TURE OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM IS VERY HIGH.
THEREFORE, NEVER ATTEMPT TO SERVICE ANY
PART OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM UNTIL IT IS
COOLED. SPECIAL CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN
WHEN WORKING NEAR THE CATALYTIC CON-
VERTER. THE TEMPERATURE OF THE CONVERTER
RISES TO A HIGH LEVEL AFTER A SHORT PERIOD
OF ENGINE OPERATION TIME.
Check catalytic converter for a flow restriction.
(Refer to 11 - EXHAUST SYSTEM - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING) Exhaust System Restriction Check
for procedure.
Visually inspect the catalytic converter element by
using a borescope or equivalent. Remove oxygen sen-
sor(s) and insert borescope. If borescope is not avail-
able, remove converter and inspect element using a
flashlight. Inspect element for cracked or melted sub-
strate.
NOTE: Before replacing a catalytic converter, deter-
mine the root cause of failure. Most catalytic con-
verter failures are caused by air, fuel or ignition
problems. (Refer to Appropriate Diagnostic Informa-
tion) for test procedures.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER -
RIGHT

REMOVAL - RIGHT SIDE

WARNING: THE NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERA-
TURE OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM IS VERY HIGH.
THEREFORE, NEVER WORK AROUND OR ATTEMPT
TO SERVICE ANY PART OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM
UNTIL IT IS COOLED. SPECIAL CARE SHOULD BE
TAKEN WHEN WORKING NEAR THE CATALYTIC
CONVERTER. THE TEMPERATURE OF THE CON-
VERTER RISES TO A HIGH LEVEL AFTER A SHORT
PERIOD OF ENGINE OPERATION TIME.
(1) Raise vehicle on hoist.
(2) Remove exhaust
EXHAUST SYSTEM - REMOVAL).
(3) Loosen or remove nut attaching right pipe to
transaxle bracket.
(4) Loosen extension pipe band clamp.
(5) Remove right side converter extension pipe
(Fig. 5).
(6) Lower vehicle.
(7) Remove air cleaner assembly with air inlet
hose (Fig. 6).
Fig. 6 Air Cleaner with Inlet Hose
1 - AIR CLEANER ASSEMBLY WITH AIR INLET HOSE
2 - THROTTLE BODY
EXHAUST SYSTEM 11 - 7
system (Refer to 11 -