With more than 25 years of experience in catalytic converter processing, PMR’s experts have the expertise and insider knowledge needed to thrive. In an industry subject to frequent change, having access to valuable information empowers catalytic converter recycling businesses to make the right decisions. Here are 4 expert tips for handling and processing your catalytic converters.
Follow the Metal Market
In the catalytic converter processing industry, it’s important to know the precious metal content of your material. For example, converters from truck salvages are primarily platinum-based, with 30%-40% palladium and no rhodium, while yards that purchase older-model vehicles will acquire converters with more palladium. Each of these recyclers should follow the precious metal market to ensure they get the most out of their specific converters.
Dismantle Material Properly
Properly dismantling a converter for processing will ensure it keeps its value. The value of a converter is compromised when the converter biscuit is damaged or broken by aggressive dismantling or improper cutting. A Honda converter worth $800 can depreciate to $600 if just a quarter of the unit (equivalent to 1 pound or less of material) is damaged.
If more than 8% of your load is made up of partials—that is, partially full units—this could mean that your dismantling techniques need improvement. To avoid damaged converters and lost profits, cut & dismantle carefully.
Something else to keep in mind: trim any pipe closer to the converter shell, allowing you to stack more converters into a shipment box.
Oxygen Sensors
Another way to maximize your profits during dismantling is to pull your oxygen sensors. Buyers and processors will pay between $4 and $6 per pound of O2 sensors; roughly six O2 sensors are all you need to reach one pound. Start collecting O2 sensors to get the most out of the dismantling process!
Know Your Count
Having a running count of your converters is extremely important for maintaining inventory and tracking your shipments. With an accurate converter count, some buyers/processors will allow you to hedge your material before shipping, which can mean securing higher rates.
Working with a processor that helps you factor in full versus partially-full units will also help you keep more precise inventory counts.
How to Manage Converter Inventory
An easy way to keep track of your converter count is by using a count system—it can be as simple as adding tally marks to your gaylord boxes. But marking boxes can be hard to keep up with and can get confusing when trying to keep a record of your inventory. That’s the value of working with a processor that gives you access to lot tracking and inventory management tools, since these can help you keep an accurate record of your material. This way, you’ll know exactly what has been sent to processing and what’s still at your facility.
Assay Is a Must!
During catalytic converter processing, assaying gets you between 10% and 30% more for your material than if you had sold per unit. With assay, you are accessing your material’s true value, with cutting-edge technology that proves your material’s worth.
Another benefit of assaying is that it allows you to take advantage of a high market and hedge your prices quickly and confidently. Make sure your processor has a quick turnaround rate so you can react to the market and get the most value from your catalytic converters.
Moving Forward
Investing time in converter processing will do wonders for your bottom line. Converter recycling is highly profitable when you work with a catalytic converter processor that offers extensive evaluation and monitoring tools, data, and insights.
Having the right information is the first step towards a more profitable business. Visit PMR’s Resource Center for more information on the catalytic converter processing industry.
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FAQs
A quick and easy solution to recommend for clearing the code and restoring catalytic converter performance is Rislone Cat Complete Fuel, Exhaust and Emissions System Cleaner (No. 4720). This advanced formulation product cleans the entire emissions and exhaust system, as well as the fuel system.
Does catalytic converter cleaner really work? ›
Unfortunately, cleaning your catalytic converter does not guarantee it'll work effectively afterward. If your converter is defective, cleaning it will not make an impact and any symptoms present before the cleaning process will return. In the end, if nothing works, a replacement is the way to go.
Which o2 sensor throws a P0420 code? ›
If the voltage of the downstream oxygen sensor decreases and fluctuates like the upstream oxygen sensor, this is a certain indication that the oxygen levels are too high and the PCM will throw the P0420 code.
How do you restore the efficiency of a catalytic converter? ›
Catalytic Converter Cleaning Methods:
Chemical cleaning: Applying a specially formulated catalytic converter cleaner to dissolve carbon buildup and restore converter efficiency. Thermal cleaning: Driving the vehicle at high speeds for an extended period can help burn off carbon deposits and unclog the converter.
How to improve exhaust flow? ›
Optimizing Exhaust Flow: Consider upgrading your exhaust system with high-flow components. These aftermarket parts can improve exhaust flow, reducing backpressure and increasing engine power. Consult with experts or automotive professionals to find the best options for your vehicle.
What is the most common cause of catalytic converter failure? ›
Catalytic Converters Fail for a Reason
One of the major causes for catalytic converter failure has to do with malfunctioning Oxygen Sensors, or because of carbon buildup. High mileage could be another culprit, as well as an improperly operating engine.
What are two common causes of catalytic converter failures? ›
Possible causes are an improper fuel mixture, incorrect timing, bad spark plugs, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, sticking float, defective fuel injector or a faulty check valve.
What are the three most leading failures of a catalytic converter? ›
Most catalytic converter failures fall under one of three categories: Overheated, melted or broken converters.
Does Cataclean really clean O2 sensors? ›
Cataclean's mechanism of action is to clean pre- and post-combustion, pre-combustion Cataclean is carried with the fuel – removing deposits as it passes over components like the fuel injectors and upon combustion, Cataclean creates an acidic vapour of carboxylic acids which will clean the exhaust system including ...
How do I know if it's a bad oxygen sensor or catalytic converter? ›
To check if it's a clogged cat versus a bad oxygen sensor (when you don't have a check engine light), grab a vacuum gauge. Connect the gauge to an intake manifold vacuum line. Start the engine, let it idle, and check the reading on the gauge. This is your baseline vacuum.
P0420 code means that either the upstream or downstream oxygen sensor in the catalytic converter is not working. Have you tried repacing the oxygen sensors? Curtis B. You disturbed the exhaust when you replaced with the Cats, now they are reading less than expected.
Which sensor is P0420 bank 1? ›
P0420 stands for “Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1).” This trouble code is triggered when the on-board computer detects that the bank 1 of the catalytic converter is underperforming.
Can you fix a catalytic converter without replacing it? ›
The only guaranteed way to fix a clogged catalytic converter that is clogged with anything other than hydrocarbon soot is to replace it. For the soot clogging, there are, however, some products on the market that are designed to be catalytic converter cleaners.
What are the 3 most leading failures of a catalytic converter? ›
Most catalytic converter failures fall under one of three categories: Overheated, melted or broken converters.
Is it worth upgrading catalytic converter? ›
Put more simply: If you've made major upgrades to your engine, which are defined as increasing power 20-30% (or more), then high flow cats are for you. If you've just added a cold air intake or performance engine tune, your money is probably better spent elsewhere.
What affects the efficiency of a catalytic converter? ›
But, the efficiency of the converter is tied to the fuel trim of the engine. Most engines minutely alter the fuel trim to replenish the oxygen in the converter and to add fuel for reduction. This helps to keep the converter at the correct temperature to achieve the most efficient operation.
