745 Catalytic Converter

My father-in-law is experiencing a loss of power with his '88 745,
especially when going up hills. Recently, his mechanic replaced the exhaust
system aft of the catalytic converter. He said that he had a difficult time
with the replacement. I am wondering if there was a lot of hammering at the
rear of the catalytic converter, if he could have done damage to the
"gravel" in the cat causing a blockage. We found a hose blown off near the
air intake (one with a breather coming off of it) and I'm wondering if he is
getting backpressure in the system.

What is the average life of a catalytic converter? This car has 135,000
miles and I seem to remember they must be replaced about 150,000 miles but I
could be wrong. Is there an easy test to check the converter? How about
holding your hand up to the exhaust and see if there is an appropriate
amount of air coming out? I am going over later to look a little deeper so
any ideas would be appreciated.

Randy in Pittsburgh

 

Sounds like it yes.

Tim..

 

Hi had this happen on a 264 once the muffler clogged up knew I was in
trouble when a Volkswagen passed me up hill .Sure enough it was full of
carbon when replaced it went well again .Mind you this is one of the few
times I will ever confess that I ever owned a !#$@#$* 264 Volvo .

 

replace the muffler and see the diff if it has back pressure full of
carbon

 

Pulled the catalytic converter tonight and found it quite clogged with
carbon. He is looking for a new part now. If anyone has any ideas on where
to get a good replacement, please let me know. Thanks for all the support.

Randy