Failed CA emissions, need advise.
 

Can someone give me a suggestion. My wife`s 87 190e 16v failed. Results were:

.........................HC(ppm)..................CO%..................NO(ppm)

.......................Max.....Meas...........Max......Meas........Max...Meas
15mph..............114......293.............0.73.......3.39.........785....835
25mph...............88.......173.............0.61.......1.27.........724....766

It is running rich across the board. Not even close to passing. These numbers were after the mechanic leaned it as much as he could before the NO numbers started increasing. O2 sensor is new, injectors are new, no vacuum leaks, fuel pressures are in spec. The cat was replaced two years ago to help it pass the last time, but it could be shot already. Its a cheap one. Would a cat help or get me through or is it more involved? Maybe a fuel distributor?

Ideas, suggestions.....prayers?

Thanks.

Tinker

Was the engine up to full operating temp - as in run on the road for about an hour prior to testing?

If so, then the "cheap cat" might be your problem.

Mike,

Yes it was good and HOT.

If it does need a cat can someone suggest a good quality aftermarket cat that will last more than two years.

Tinker

Hi Mike
I learned (almost the hard way) that most catalyctic converters are replaced unnecessarely. The one on my 560sl is worth about $3,500 Cdn to replace.
What I would strongly suggest (it worked for me when mine failed) is spend about five bucks for a General Motors product called "Cleans" or "Cleens" Pour it (one or two cans) down the throat of your air intake when the engine is running at a fast idle. Pour the last bit down quickly enough to stall the engine. You must let the car sit overnight now for best results. When you start it the next day the neighbors may think your house is on fir because there will be lots of smoke. Then take it for a good run on the freeway.
I've seen at least half a dozen success stories from this treatment and I know several good garages in my area that do it rather that hit the customer with a huge bill for catalictic converter repalcement.
Hope this helps
Barrie

If 'running rich', the cat is not the main issue, unless by that you mean the HC emissions are high. Does this year use an O2 sensor? What happens to the HC emissions if it is disconnected? Sounds like you may be running 'open-loop', or 'limp-mode'.

If you are running lean, then I WOULD suspect the cat. However, if the last one lasted only two years, then I would also suspect another problem - like burning oil.

Steve