Look after your Exhaust System to Ensure Peak Engine Performance
Robert C. Beiro
A vehicle is composed of several interrelated systems whose functions are necessary to its efficient performance. One of the systems that are often overlooked but are essentially important to the vehicle's maximum efficiency is the exhaust system.
The exhaust system has and number of uses. It carries harmful exhaust fumes away from the engine as well as being important in ensuring good fuel consumption. It is also crucial to smooth and satisfactory driving.
What difference does a healthy exhaust system make to the efficient running of your vehicle?
First off, let's take a brief review of the Exhaust system and then let's identify its major components: exhaust manifold, oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, muffler and exhaust pipe and their respective functions.
There are many harmful fumes and gases that are left over from the combustion of the the fuel and air mix when the engine is running. Some of thes gases include carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons (unburned), sulfur dioxide, lead and nitrogen oxides. A healthy exhaust system will channel these fumes away from the engine properly.
These gases can not be sent straight out of the vehicle because they are harmful to both humans and the environment. They must first be cleaned by the catalytic converter. When servicing your vehicle, the exhaust system must be inspected for cracks and damage that may stop it functioning properly.
The Emission control system and dual exhaust system are the two main types of exhaust system.
The Dual Exhaust System
The Dual or Twin Exhaust system has two tail pipes, as it's name suggests. This is very important for increased vehicle performance and power. This is because it allows faster flow and expulsion of the gases, effectively making the engine 'breath' more easily.
An Emmision Control System
There are two different ways that Emission control systems 'Clean' the gases that exit your vehicle. Some do it by way of a catalytic converter that turns harmful fumes into harmless ones. Other do it by halting the formation of pollutants at the engine.
Exhaust System Components:
1. Exhaust Manifold - this part is attached to the cylinder, usually constructed of cast iron, which is used to conduct the exhaust gases from the combustion chambers to the exhaust pipe.
2. The Catalytic Converter - This component has the job of turning the harmful gases in safe ones like water vapour and carbon dioxide.
3. The Muffler - This component main task is to 'muffle' the sound that the engine exhaust make while it is running. It does this by soaking up the sound energy of the gases that travel through the exhaust pipe.
4. Exhaust Pipe - This part is constructed of steel and has the job of carrying all of the harmful gases the length of the vehicle to the tail pipe.
You should not delay the replacement of damaged exhaust system parts so that you avoid serious accidents and unwanted expenses. A clogged and glowing catalytic converter indicates serious problem so don't delay replacing it.
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