That rotten egg smell.
 

I just checked the catalytic converter for rust,or holes and found it to be in excellent cond. Is it time to replace it? Car has 185,000 mi's. How do you know when it is bad?

When you smell that rotten egg smell.

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL

I usually smell it after we are out and about, stop for lunch, for about 30min. then start for home in about 5to 10 min. we both look at each other an say [it wasen't me.] then i realize it is the cat.

if you both deny farting and you realise its the cat, shouldn't you take that to the vet? or leave the cat home? or have it car trained?

:D


time to get a new cat.
i'd avoid the long haired species. all that licking might result in a smell.;)

I meant that in response to "How do you know when it is bad?"

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL

Sorry Sixto,i missunderstood your reply.I guess it's time to dip into the check book.

FastLane offerss cats for a little more than $500.

Sixto
95 S420
87 300SDL

Re: That rotten egg smell.
 

Converters have two failure modes- chemical and mechanical. Chemical degradation is indicated by failing emission tests and all other emission control equipment and operation checks out okay.

With enough thermal cycles the honeycomb matrix can break apart and either cause a rattle or loss of power due to plugging the exhaust system.

Bottom line: There is no need to replace it unless and until one of the two above conditions is positively confirmed or until the shell burns through causing a leak, but since it's stainless steel, burn through is not common.

Duke

It's most likely the cats but also check your battery. Ocassionally your alternator's regulator will go bad and overcharge the battery. This will cause the battery to boil, which will give you a similar rotten egg smell. It's easy to check it.

Thanks for the help guys. I think i will wait until it is time for the annual inspection in march.