Catalytic Converter / O2 Sensor bad - exhaust rattling at idle, power cut in/out???

bwheeler · #1 07-14-2009, 08:02 AM

Specs: 2001 Ford Ranger, 2.3L 4cyl, 92K miles, Manual

Problem: Sometimes at acceleration, but mostly once at speed - the engine will sort of 'kick in and out.' Sort of going from positive power to what feels like 3 cylinders all the sudden. Also, the exhaust sort of rattles at idle so that's why I think it might be a bad catalytic converter.

So Far: Plugs/Wires, MAF sensor, TPS Sensor good, Vacuum is Fine

What I think might be the issue: O2 Sensor or a Clogged Catlytic Converter. Mechanic checked it out however, said that the problem wasn't bad enough to find (no codes) and it would have to get worse in order to find a solution.

Any ideas?

Tried to keep it short and sweet . . .

Brandon

STL · #2 07-14-2009, 02:42 PM

Just a shot remove the catalytic converter and see it it still acts the same

bwheeler · #3 07-15-2009, 02:51 PM

How do you clean out the catalytic converter?

Any pics or advice? Can it be replaced without welding/cutting etc.

Thank you!

Brandon

STL · #4 07-15-2009, 03:07 PM

THere is no way to clean one out

94Woodhauler · #5 11-15-2009, 12:55 AM

Last week I got the truck out, I had not used it in about a year and a half.
It would start and idle fine, but had no power. OK it is a 2.3, but it would not pull 3500 RPM. I had to haul some things to Kent (about 55 miles) and it took me almost 2 hours.
I had just picked up a almost new stock exhaust (cat back) at the junkyard for $25 and put it on, so I thought a critter had built a nest in it or something.
I pulled it off and it still had no power. It was also quiet... with no muffler!
I am not telling anyone to do this, but if you use a spade bit with 2 extentions chucked in a sturdy drill, a couple good sized holes can be drilled through the pluged catylist core from the flange opening. At least on mine I could. I did not cut it all out so it still smells like it is working. This would not work if your area does smog checks. It sounds better too, at least for a four with stock pipes.