Catalytic converters and leaves

[LTNRFD 266]

This doesn't happen as much as it did back in the 70's. When catalytic converters were first placed on the exhaust systems there was a rash of car/leave fires. Remind family and friends do not park your car on a pile of leaves.

Photo by Paula Eisenberg

Edited November 21, 2008 by LTNRFD

[texastom791 31]

Why does the catalytic converter cause this to happen could you please explain .I wasn't around in the 70's and I don't know too much about cars so I don't know .

[TR54 239]

Why does the catalytic converter cause this to happen could you please explain .I wasn't around in the 70's and I don't know too much about cars so I don't know .

The catalytic converter location , a low point in the middle of the bottom of the vehicle and its very high heat contacting the dry leaves. Same goes when a vehicle is on its side - Hot ! Very Hot !

[Guest EFFP411]

And, without the proper heat sheilding, the catalytic converter can get as hot as 1200 degrees!!!

[abaduck 123]

Beware especially of old bangers with a clapped-out engine and/or life-expired or burnt-out cat; they get much hotter than a cat in good condition (which is already plenty hot!).

Mike

[texastom791 31]

The catalytic converter location , a low point in the middle of the bottom of the vehicle and its very high heat contacting the dry leaves. Same goes when a vehicle is on its side - Hot ! Very Hot !

THanks that's what I thought but I wasn't sure.

[markmets415 524]

Tom that's what I like about you, not afraid to ask a question if you're not sure. Great information and something not often talked about anymore with the onset of airbags, hybrid vehicles and the many other safety features; back to basics that are often overlooked today.

Edited November 22, 2008 by markmets415

[Bnechis 3,961]

Mark, your fire truck (Clip art) has amber lights...so it must be retired and not "respond" to calls. Good thing it didn't have blue......1,000 post later it still would be an issue lol

[markmets415 524]

Mark, your fire truck (Clip art) has amber lights...so it must be retired and not "respond" to calls. Good thing it didn't have blue......1,000 post later it still would be an issue lol

You lost me for a minute there Capt., the yellow lighted rig belongs to LTNRFD not me.

[Bnechis 3,961]

You lost me for a minute there Capt., the yellow lighted rig belongs to LTNRFD not me.

Yes and LTNRFD's name is mark and the clip art of the truck is in post #1 of this thread

[markmets415 524]

Yeah I saw his yellow lighted truck but didn't know his name was Mark, I got a PM letting me know that.