Electra Park Avenue V8-307 5.0L (1983)
Catalytic Converter: All Technical Service Bulletins
Engine - Poor Performance or No Start Condition.
Model Year
1983
Bulletin No. 83-235
File in Group 64
Number
22
Date
Dec. 1984
SUBJECT:
RESTRICTED EXHAUST ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH DUAL BED CONVERTERS
MODELS AFFECTED:
1983 5.0 LITER V-8 GASOLINE ENGINE (VIN CODE Y)
CONDITION
Some 1983 Buicks produced prior to March 10, 1983 and equipped with a 5.0L V-8 gasoline engine (VIN Code Y) may develop a restricted exhaust due
to the catalytic converter becoming plugged. This can result in poor engine performance or a no start condition.
CORRECTION
Catalytic converter replacement may be required on vehicles suspected of having a plugged converter. With this bulletin, Buick is releasing a new
converter kit package which includes the beads in the upper bed and a plug for sealing the lower bed after installing beads per instructions in this
bulletin. Prior to installing this new converter, the proper diagnosis of a restricted exhaust is essential. The following is a recommended diagnostic
procedure to determine if the exhaust is restricted.
A.
Inspect the exhaust system for damaged or collapsed pipes and repair as necessary.
FIGURE 1
B.
Remove air hose at left or right air manifold check valve and remove check valve. See Figure 1. When removing check valve, two (2) wrenches
must be used to avoid twisting off air manifold pipe.
C.
Use a low pressure gauge such as a fuel pump gauge and connect it to the air manifold.
D.
Run the engine at 2500 rpm and note the pressure reading.
E.
Any reading above 1.25 psi indicates a restricted exhaust.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE
If the previous diagnosis indicates a restricted exhaust, the catalytic converter must be replaced using the following procedure:
1.
Remove converter using procedures listed in the applicable chassis service manual.
CAUTION: The catalytic converter beads contain platinum, palladium and/or rhodium. Additionally, the beads may be finely coated with lead
compounds. Therefore, precautions should be taken to minimize dust generation during the replacement procedure. These
precautions include:
