Catalytic Converter — Maintenance Rules (Chevrolet Tahoe 1)

1. Maintenance of the neutralizer comes down to periodic inspection and checking for clogging of the entire exhaust system. It is recommended to evaluate the clogging of the exhaust system by checking the vacuum in the intake manifold using a vacuum gauge.

• a) Open the throttle valve, bringing the engine speed to 2200 rpm.
• b) Release the throttle valve.
• c) If there is no blockage, the vacuum in the collector will change relative to the normal level by approximately 250 Pa in either direction.
• d) If the vacuum gauge reading is no more than 650 Pa above the normal level, or the vacuum gauge needle stops at a level exceeding the normal vacuum and then abruptly moves back, then the release of gases from the exhaust system or neutralizer is impeded (the exhaust pipe is bent or crushed, the internal structure of the muffler has shifted, the internal channels are clogged).

2. On some cars, the neutralizer is attached with bolts and can be replaced independently. If the neutralizer is welded to the rest of the exhaust pipes, then this unit is replaced at a car service.

(The original material is located on the website «chevyman»)