Reliant-K L4-156 2.6L VIN G 2-bbl (1983)
platinum and other metals, the catalytically active materials.
This device, located in the exhaust system between the exhaust manifold and muffler, requires the use of heat shields, in some cases, due to its high
operating temperatures.
The heat shields are necessary to protect chassis components, passenger compartment and other areas from heat related damage.
A smaller diameter fuel tank filler tube neck, Fig. 10, is incorporated to prevent the larger service station pump nozzle, used for leaded fuels, being
inserted into the filler tube, thereby preventing system contamination.
Since the use of leaded fuels contaminates the catalysts, deteriorating its effectiveness, the use of unleaded fuels is mandatory in vehicles equipped
with catalytic converters. The catalytic converter can tolerate very small amounts of leaded fuels without permanently reducing the catalyst
effectiveness.
Some vehicles incorporate two mini-oxidation catalytic converters in conjunction with the main underfloor converter. Their main purpose is to initiate
exhaust gas oxidation before the gases reach the underfloor converter. The mini-ox, Fig. 11, is a single biscuit catalytic converter and is shaped so that
only one small biscuit can fit inside the can.
The "hybrid" converter, Fig. 11, utilizes a larger biscuit and a smaller biscuit. A Power Heat Control Valve is incorporated to increase the flow of
exhaust gases through the left-hand exhaust manifold to rapidly bring the mini-catalyst up to operating temperature.
CAUTION: Operation of any type, including idling, should be avoided if engine misfiring occurs. Under this condition, the exhaust system will
operate at abnormally high temperature, which may cause damage to the catalyst or other underbody parts of the car.
Alteration or deterioration of the ignition or fuel systems, or any type of operating condition, which results in engine misfiring must be corrected to
avoid overheating the catalytic converter. Proper maintenance and tune-up according to manufacturer's specifications should be made to correct the
condition as soon as possible. Interrupting the ignition at high speeds with the transmission in gear can be expected to result in a catalyst overheat
condition.
