GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

This in not really a Vibe question, but more of a how-to in general. How does one go about testing a catalytic convertor? Does it require special tools? If it is clogged, how do you unclog?

A vacuum gauge will do it. Sorry can't find the test procedure steps. I diagnosed my Jeep cat being clogged this way. Tell-tale signs of a clogged cat are loss of topend power and higher than normal exhaust manifold temperature. My daughter's Celica EM was glowing red.

I have had GM test my CC several times, as my car seems to have an appetite for destroying them.In any case, in the Vibe, it requires unhooking the exhaust system from the motor. There is a gasket or seal involved, and it is damaged in the process.I agree with silverawd26 ... if it's clogged a new one is the only recourse. There should be a reason why it's clogged, though. A CC is not a "replacement" part, like an oil filter.

GM is going to try and stick by its guns on this one. As late as December 2003, they were claiming that the sulfur exhaust smell was "normal."See this TechLink document: http://service.gm.com/gmtechli...ory23 The only thing is, I don't know where to find the bulletin 06-05-006 that is mentioned. Any ideas?