SYS.OK|MANUAL.DB● LIVE
HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET1998SUBURBAN K2500, 7.4 J, PART TIMEREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 153 (ENGINE CONTROL SYSTEM SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - 3.8L)DIAGNOSTIC TESTSDTC P0420: CATALYST SYSTEM LOW EFFICIENCYDIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES
1998 Chevrolet Suburban K2500, 7.4 J, Part Time

Diagnostic Procedures

1998 Chevrolet Suburban K2500, 7.4 J, Part TimeSECTION Diagnostic Procedures
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2002 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2002 Pontiac Bonneville, 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 2002 Chevrolet Impala, and 2002 Buick Regal. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Perform Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls. See DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK - ENGINE CONTROLS  under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM. After performing Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls, go to next step.
  2. Are any other DTCs set? If yes, see DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS . If no, go to next step.
    3. NOTE: If the A/C is left on the following diagnostic will not run. If more than 6 tests have been attempted and the DTC has not passed or failed this ignition cycle the test may be aborted. See DIAGNOSTIC AIDS .
  3. Clear the DTCs using the scan tool. Turn the A/C off. Start the engine and wait until the vehicle is fully warmed up, at least 10 minutes. Next, idle the engine above 1500 RPM for an additional 5 minutes. The vehicle may be driven for the 5 minute run time. Idle for 1 minute for each additional attempt at 1500 RPM on same key cycle. Fully open the hood. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running DTC. Test may need to be completed up to 6 times in order to pass or fail. Does the scan tool indicate the DTC ran and passed this ignition cycle? If yes, system is okay. If no, go to next step.
  4. Visually and physically inspect the three-way catalytic converter for damage. Check for the following conditions:
    • Dents.
    • Severe discoloration caused by excessive temperatures.
    • Holes.
    • Internal rattle caused by damaged catalyst substrate.

    Verify that the three-way catalytic converter is the proper original equipment, and manufacturer's part. Did your inspection reveal a condition? If yes, go to step  9. If no, go to next step.

  5. Visually and physically inspect the exhaust system for leaks, restrictions, damage. Repair condition as necessary. Did your inspection reveal a condition? If yes, go to step  7. If no, go to next step.
  6. Visually check the Heated Oxygen Sensors (HO2S), and the HO2S wiring harness for damage. Did you complete the action? If yes, go to step  8. If no, go to step  9.
  7. Repair exhaust system. After repairs, go to step  10.
  8. Replace the HO2S sensor or repair wiring as necessary. After repairs, go to step  10.
    9. NOTE: A misfiring condition may damage the replacement three-way catalytic converter. Check for a misfiring condition. If a misfire is present, repair the misfiring condition before replacing the three-way catalytic converter.
  9. Replace TWC. Check for possible engine misfire DTC or engine mechanical problem. After repairs, go to next step.
    10. NOTE: If the A/C is left on, the following diagnostic will not run. If more than 6 tests have been attempted and the DTC has not passed or failed this ignition cycle, the test may be aborted. See DIAGNOSTIC AIDS .
  10. Clear DTCs using the scan tool. Turn the A/C off. Start the engine and wait until the vehicle is fully warmed up, at least 10 minutes. Idle the engine above 1500 RPM for 5 additional minutes. The vehicle may be driven for the 5 minute run time. Idle the engine 1 minute for each additional attempt at 1500 RPM on same key cycle. Fully open the hood. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running DTC. Test may need to be completed up to 6 times in order to pass or fail. Does the scan tool indicate the DTC ran and passed this ignition cycle? If yes, go to next step. If no, go to step  4.
  11. Using scan tool, observe stored information. Does scan tool displays any DTCs that have not been diagnosed? If yes, see DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS . If no, system is okay.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsFree Quote CheckQuote Shield Pro

When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.