GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Restricted Exhaust System Check

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check?

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Go to Step 2

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

  1. Remove the front HO2S sensor on the side of the engine that is suspected of being restricted. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 or Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 .
  2. Install the Exhaust Back Pressure tester J35314-A in place of the HO2S sensor.
  3. Idle the engine at normal operating temperature.
  4. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gauge.

Does the reading exceed the specified value?

8.6 kPa (1.25 psi)

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 3

3

  1. The Exhaust Backpressure Gauge still installed.
  2. Increase engine speed to 2,000 RPM.
  3. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gauge.

Does the reading exceed the specified value?

20.7 kPa (3 psi)

Go to Step 4

Go to Symptoms

4

  1. Turn OFF the engine.
  2. Re-install the front HO2S sensor.
  3. Remove the rear HO2S sensor on the side of the engine that is suspected of being restricted. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 or Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 .
  4. Install the Exhaust Back Pressure tester J35314-A in place of the rear HO2S sensor.
  5. Idle the engine.
  6. Increase the engine speed to 2,000 RPM.
  7. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gauge.

Does the reading exceed the specified value?

20.7 kPa (3 psi)

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 6

5

Repair the restriction in the exhaust system after the Catalytic Converter. Inspect exhaust system for the following:

    • Collapsed pipe
    • Heat distress
    • Internal muffler failure

Is the action completed?

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System OK

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6

Replace the Catalytic Converter on the affected side of the engine. Refer to Oxidation Catalytic Converter Replacement in Engine Exhaust.

Is the action completed?

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System OK

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