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Parts Glossary |
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Glossary of Automotive Components/Terms
A sensor in the exhaust system that measures oxygen content and is used by
the on-board computer to adjust fuel mixture. To be efficient this sensor
needs to send signals to the computer many times every second . This sensor
doesn't start operating until it reaches 600 degrees F. and needs to be
between 800 and 1200 degrees to be accurate.
When replacing this sensor on later model cars, it is best to use origina
l
equipment parts (from the manufacture of the car). Many aftermarket sensors
will cause problems and continue to turn on the "check engine" light as they
are not manufactured the same to save money.
On V engines there may be one for each side of engine. The sensor used for
fuel control
is always in front of the Catalytic Converter. Starting in 1996 there is
another located behind the catalytic converter. Its only function is to
monitor the catalytic converter operation. If the Computer detects that the
converter is not removing enough emissions between the front and rear
sensors it will turn on the "check engine light" and set a catalyst
efficiency code.
Catalytic Converter
Introduced in the mid 70's the Cat, as it is nicknamed, rids the
exhaust of harmful emissions by a catalyst that reduces emissions by
its reaction flowing through the converter which creates heat and consumes
it.
In the catalytic converter, there are two different types of catalyst at
work, a reduction catalyst and an oxidation catalyst. Both types consist of
a ceramic structure coated with a metal catalyst, usually platinum, rhodium
and/or palladium. The idea is to create a structure that exposes the maximum
surface area of catalyst to the exhaust stream, while also minimizing the
amount of catalyst required, as the materials are extremely expensive.
As the converter uses heat for its catalyst process, the more it has to clean
the exhaust, the hotter it gets. High temperatures will cause warping,
cracking and disintegration of the materials. If your Check Engine light is
on, you may have a problem that can overheat the converter. If you have a
misfire, you are definitely creating lots of heat.
Cars made after 1995 monitor the effectiveness of the cat and will trigger
the Check Engine light if it fails to remove harmful emissions.
Integrity, Quality and Exceptional Service.
Wayne's Garage
27 E 27th in Eugene, Oregon
333 Q Street in
Springfield, Oregon