Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Catalytic Converters: Description
On Capri and Capri II, the catalytic converter is installed in engine exhaust system in front of muffler so that exhaust gas will pass through it. It is used on California 2.3L and 2.8L engines. The converter is a cylindrical shaped device which contains a substrate coated with a catalyst material. When exhaust gases, mixed with air from air injection system, pass through converter, catalyst promotes a chemical reaction to convert unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide and water.
The catalytic converter used on Fiesta models is designed to reduce the output of carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbon emissions. The catalytic converter changes these emissions into a chemical reaction inside the converter. When the hot exhaust gases pass over the convener element, a chemical process causes the emission gases to change their structure.
On Courier, a catalytic converter is installed in the exhaust system of all California vehicles. When exhaust gases, mixed with air from the air injection system, pass through converter, catalyst promotes a chemical reaction to convert unburned hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide and water.
The Courier is also equipped with a catalyst warning system. This system consists of a thermo sensor on the converter which monitors catalytic converter temperatures, and a warning light on the instrument panel which lights when thermo sensor detects a converter temperature above 1742°F (950°C).
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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.