Dual Bed Catalyst - Change Procedures
85olds4SUBJECT CATALYST CHANGE PROCEDURES ON VEHICLES NUMBER: 83-1-24
EQUIPPED WITH DUAL BED CONVERTERS
DATE: Feb. 6, 1985
MODELS/YEARS 1981-83 CUTLASS SUPREME, DELTA 88, SECTION: 6F
NINETY-EIGHT & TORONADO
Comments have been received expressing concerns about the health effects of dust produced when servicing the catalyst in vehicles equipped with dual bed catalytic converters. Refer to Dealer Technical Bulletins 82-T-27 and 83-T-25, as well as Emission Campaign Bulletins 82-E-03 and 82-E-04.
Several studies have been undertaken to review this matter. The studies showed that catalytic converters can be serviced safely because very little, if any, dust is produced if the procedural steps are followed when replacing the catalyst. These studies also showed that levels of lead and other metals were well under the safe limits. Therefore, it is recommended that prior to bead removal, personnel review the appropriate Dealer Technical and/or Emission Campaign Bulletins, allow the catalytic converter to cool, add water to the outlet end of the converter, and put on a suitable dust mask, along with rubber gloves and safety glasses. SPECIFICALLY IMPORTANT is the step requiring the addition of 16 oz. of water to the outlet end of the converter prior to bead removal.