1996 Buick Park Avenue Engine Performance

73BUICK

MEMBER
1996 BUICK PARK AVENUE
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
99,700 MILES

Okay, I accidentally put leaded gasoline in my car a tank-full ago (it's a long story). I'm worried about the catalytic converter now. I noticed the engine running hotter than usual and decreased power. I'm wondering if there's back pressure in the exhaust system (a clog) now, or is it possible that something else has caused the combination of these symptoms? If it is catalytic-related, is there anything I can do to strip the lead deposits off (ie engine cleaner, fuel injector cleaners, fuel additives, etc)?

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,300 POSTS

I didn't think they still made leaded fuel. Regardless, chances are the converter is shot. It will melt down inside and is non repairable.

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Thursday, April 8th, 2010 AT 10:17 AM

73BUICK

MEMBER
13 POSTS

I can thank a certain friend for not saying that the gas can contained leaded fuel before I used it in my empty tank so I could get to the gas station and finish filling up. If it 'melts down', what will happen? Will the back pressure release? In other words, will the car still be driveable with a melted converter (until emissions of course)?

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Thursday, April 8th, 2010 AT 4:06 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,300 POSTS

If it does, you will lose power, mpg. And can cause damage to the engine. Basically, it is like plugging the tail pipe so nothing can come out. Not a good idea. Try this test. Drive it at night and let it warm up to normal operating temp. After you drive home, let the engine run an craw under the truck to see if the converter is cherry red hot. If it is, replace it.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.
Joe

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Thursday, April 8th, 2010 AT 9:57 PM