We hate to say it here at Midline Truck & Trailer Repair but if you drive a large truck, you have a greater chance of your catalytic converter getting stolen. This is because the converters on these trucks are larger than the ones installed on cars and small trucks. Because people steal catalytic converters for the metal, the larger the converter the larger the payout. Here are signs that your catalytic converter was stolen.
Noisy/Roaring Engine
Your first clue is a noisy and roaring engine when you fire it up after you get into the truck. The missing catalytic converter allows for more engine and exhaust noise. If your engine is extremely loud, cut it right away and look underneath the truck to see if the catalytic converter is missing. You should be able to see the space where it once was and the cut marks in the metal.
Rough Acceleration
Your truck’s acceleration will also be very rough as the engine sends the exhaust into the exhaust system. This operation can cause jerky acceleration because the engine uses force to get the exhaust into the catalytic converter. Unfortunately, because the catalytic converter is no longer there to absorb the force, your truck will jerk when you try to accelerate.
Increased Hydrocarbons
A stolen catalytic converter will also increase the hydrocarbons found in your truck’s exhaust because it is no longer there to treat the exhaust. Unfortunately, this means that your truck will be releasing dangerous emissions into the environment.
Reduced Low-End Torque
As if the rough acceleration discussed above is not enough, your truck will also lose power when you are driving slowly. This is because the missing catalytic converter reduces the truck’s ability to produce low-end torque. Replacing the converter will restore the power production.
Headaches/Illness
If you start to get a headache or feel ill when you are driving your truck, pull over and cut the engine right away. This is a sign that you are inhaling carbon monoxide. If the catalytic converter is missing, the carbon monoxide is not being converted into a safer gas.
Dashboard Warning
Finally, you will receive a dashboard warning in the form of a check engine light if your catalytic converter has been ripped off. Various system sensors will know something is wrong and send malfunctioning codes to the engine control module.
Midlane Truck & Trailer Repair in Eugene, OR, can replace your catalytic converter if somebody took it. Call us today or stop by our shop.