Semi Truck Catalytic Converter Location (Where Exactly Is It?)

Are you trying to find a Semi Truck Catalytic Converter Location?

If so, then you are on the right page.

Generally, the emission of carbon from semi-trucks has a negative effect on the atmosphere; hence, it is highly significant and necessary to think of ways to reduce this environmental impact.

A good option to reduce emissions from diesel trucks and semi-trucks is the catalytic converter which can be very efficient. A very significant number

This guide will help you know your Semi Truck Catalytic Converters Location.

You’ll also learn about the different types of catalytic converters, how they work, their symptoms, tips on securing the catalytic converter from thieves, and lots more.

Where Is the Semi Truck Catalytic Converter Location?

Generally, semi-trucks usually have their catalytic converter on the exhaust pipe. The part where the catalytic converter is located usually has a honeycomb or beaded shape, and it is covered in a metal combination of palladium, rhodium, and platinum.

Knowing where the catalytic converter can be found greatly depends on the exhaust system’s setup. Exhaust systems are of two types. They are The vertical and Horizontal systems.

This is due to the fact that the catalytic converter location differs based on the exhaust system. For example, in vertical systems, converters are usually fixed in straight lines on the exhaust.

Meanwhile, in horizontal systems, their converters are spread over the whole length of the exhaust. This is a very common system in passenger vehicles and is usually found in models with 2 or 4 cylinder engines.

Also Read: How Many Catalytic Converters Are in a Car?

What Is a Catalytic Converter?

A catalytic converter is a device that turns harmful contaminants passed out from a vehicle’s engine into unharmful gases.

The byproducts produced are then emitted off the vehicle. This prevents toxic gases from being released into the environment, resulting in climate change.

Another advantage of a catalytic converter aside from reducing emissions into the atmosphere includes reducing crankcase emissions and regulating fuel efficiency.

Another fundamental role the catalytic converter plays is in protecting a vehicle’s engine from damage.

Benefits of a Catalytic Converter

Pollutants such as carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, nitrous oxide, and carbon monoxide are significantly reduced by the catalytic converter.
It is an essential part of many diesel and gas-powered vehicles.
It Reduces the quantity of gasoline required.
Without the catalytic converters, vehicles will be too loud while running.
With catalytic converters, vehicles become faster and more responsive.
Engine performance is greatly boosted.

Also Read: Catalytic Converter Repair Without Replacing It

Do Semi-trucks Have Catalytic Converters?

Yes, catalytic converters can be found in semi-trucks. These catalytic converters are usually made with different and valuable metals, making them high-value devices.

Do 18-Wheelers Have Catalytic Converters?

Yes, the majority of 18-wheelers have catalytic converters. However, it is worthy of note catalytic converters are a legal requirement for vehicles.

Laws in some states mandates using zero-emission vehicles. Hence, an inquiry on specific state laws should be made before deciding on a car.

What Are the Types of Semi Truck Catalytic Converters?

1. Oxidation Catalyst

The oxidation catalyst is the first category of a catalytic converter in semi-trucks. It reduces toxic elements in dangerous emissions like hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and Carbon dioxide (CO2).

It equally requires an additional air pump. Regardless, the oxidation catalyst takes out just a fraction of the contaminating elements.

2. Two-Way

The second category is known as the two-way catalytic converter. Its operation is in two phases, which occur after each other in a chronological pattern.

Gases like Nitrogen oxide passed out from vehicles are broken down from the initial phase.

Carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons, which are gotten from unburned fuel, are usually broken down in the second stage. Furthermore, this system also has an extra air pump.

3. Three-Way

The last category of catalytic converters is the three-way catalyst. They help convert toxic and dangerous gases passed out from the vehicle’s engine to gases that are harmless to the environment.

Carbon monoxide and Hydraulic fluids are some of the pollutants talked about. These harmful wastes from unburned fuel are usually changed to water, N2, and carbon dioxide, which are less harmful.

Also Read: Bad Catalytic Converter Symptoms & How To Fix

How Does a Semi Truck Catalytic Converter Work?

How the catalytic converter work in semi-trucks is not so difficult. It works by converting toxic gases into harmless elements through chemical reactions.

However, the conversion process occurs when the temperatures are high, as this destroys chemicals that cause emissions without releasing dangerous fumes.

This process occurs in two phases: selective oxidation and catalytic reduction.

In catalytic reduction, some pollutants are converted into less harmful substances, such as carbon dioxide and water.
In selective oxidation, gas molecules that are poisonous are broken down by oxygen molecules found in the air. Consequently, this broken-down gas is passed out into the environment at a slower pace than it would have been if there were no catalysts.

How to Protect Semi Truck Catalytic Converter From Thieves

Most times, the catalytic converter in semi-trucks is valuable as they contain precious metals such as palladium, rhodium, and platinum.

Due to this reason, converters are usually stolen from a vehicle. Some things that may be done to protect the catalytic converter of a semi-truck from thieves include:

Ensure the truck is well protected and not unnecessarily exposed every time.
Take away any item of value inside or outside the vehicle that may attract thieves.
Installing a security system in the vehicle to monitor anyone who enters or exits the vehicle can be of help.
Always be observant and watch out for suspicious movements or vehicles in the surroundings.

The Symptoms When You Car Lacks a Catalytic Converter

if a diesel or gas vehicle makes a lot of noise when it is started, such sound only gets louder when driving for a while.
if the vehicle does not drive smoothly anymore and it usually makes a hissing tone when the vehicle is accelerating.
If a big opening is found at the center of the vehicle’s exhaust pipe when checked, then the converter must have been removed.

Frequently Asked Questions – Semi Truck Catalytic Converter Location

Where Is the Catalytic Converter Located?

A catalytic converter can be found underneath the vehicle, connected with bolts to the exhaust pipe. It’s an essential component of a vehicle’s exhaust system as it reduces the emission of toxic compounds found in a vehicle’s exhaust.

Which Diesel Catalytic Converters Are Worth the Most?

Based on data derived in 2020, The catalytic converter of a Ferrari F430 is said to be the most expensive catalytic converter, and it goes for an explosive price of $3,770. Furthermore, the F430 requires two of these converters; hence a complete replacement usually costs owners of the vehicle a sum of $7,540, excluding labor costs.

Do Diesel Trucks Have Catalytic Converters?

YES, diesel trucks have Catalytic converters. Although, it can only be found in diesel trucks manufactured in 1990 and years after.

Conclusion – Semi Truck Catalytic Converter Location

Remember that the semi-truck catalytic converter location greatly depends on the setup of the exhaust system. Catalytic converters come in three types, but all work the same way.

Lastly, catalytic converters are a target for thieves. Hence, different means to properly secure the vehicle should be engaged. Hopefully, reading this article has been of help and increased your knowledge regarding catalytic converters.