GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Restricted Exhaust System Check

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Was the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check performed?

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Go to Step 2

Go to the Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

  1. Remove HO2S 1 Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement .
  2. In place of HO2S 1, install J 35314-A Exhaust Back Pressure Tester.
  3. Start the engine.
  4. With the engine idling at normal operating temperature, observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gage.

Does the reading exceed the specified value?

8.6 kPa (1.25 psi)

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 3

3

  1. With the exhaust each pressure tester or equivalent in place of HO2S 1, increase engine speed to 2000 rpm.
  2. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gage.

Does the reading exceed the specified value?

20.7 kPa (3 psi)

Go to Step 4

No trouble found

4

  1. Reinstall HO2S 1. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement .
  2. Remove HO2S 2. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement .
  3. In place of HO2S, install exhaust back pressure tester J 35314-A Exhaust Back Pressure Tester.
  4. Engine at normal operating temperature.
  5. Increase engine speed to 2000 rpm.
  6. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gage.

Does the reading exceed the specified value?

20.7 kPa (3 psi)

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 6

5

Locate and repair the restriction in the exhaust system past the three way catalytic converter. Possible faults include:

    • Collapsed pipe.
    • Heat distress.
    • Internal muffler failure.

Is action complete?

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Go to Step 7

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6

Replace the Three Way Catalytic Converter.

Is action complete?

--

Go to Step 7

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7

  1. Remove HO2S 1. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement .
  2. In place of HO2S 1, install J 35314-A Exhaust Back Pessure Tester.
  3. Engine idling at normal operating temperature
  4. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gage.

Does the reading exceed the specified value?

8.6 kPa(1.25 psi)

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 8

8

  1. With exhaust back pressure tester in place of HO2S 1, increase engine speed to 2000 rpm
  2. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gage.

Does the reading exceed the specified value?

20.7 kPa (3 psi)

Go to Step 5

System OK