STARTING AND DRIVING
342
THREE−WAY CATALYTIC
CONVERTERS
Three−way catalytic converters are emission control
devices installed in the exhaust system.
The purpose is to reduce pollutants in the exhaust gas.
CAUTION
D Keep people and combustible materials away from
the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The
exhaust gas is very hot.
D Do not idle or park your vehicle over anything that
might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper or
rags.
NOTICE
A large amount of unburned gases flowing into the
three−way catalytic converter may cause it to overheat
and create a fire hazard. To prevent this and other
damage, observe the following precautions:
D Use only unleaded gasoline.
D Do not drive with an extremely low fuel level; running
out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, creating
an excessive load on the three−way catalytic
converter.
D Do not allow the engine to run at idle speed for more
than 20 minutes.
D Avoid racing the engine.
D Do not push−start or pull−start your vehicle.
D Do not turn off the ignition while the vehicle is
moving.
D Keep your engine in good running order.
Malfunctions in the engine electrical system, electric
ignition system or fuel system could cause an
extremely high three−way catalytic converter
temperature.