Testing the exhaust for backpressure

2002 VOLKSWAGEN GTI
138,000 MILES
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MSMCCORKLE
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How do I test the exhaust for excessive backpressure? And if that is the cause of the problem, would that give me my power back and help stop the roughness of the ride and idle?
Aug 31, 2011 at 6:53 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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You need to remove the O2 sensors before the cat and using a special tool, check for back pressure. If they are bad, the only thing you can do is replace them.
Aug 31, 2011 at 6:58 PM
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MSMCCORKLE
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The special tool goes in the hole where the oxygen sensors were then? I don't need to actually remove the cat to inspect it?
Aug 31, 2011 at 7:05 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Yes, the pressure gauge screws into where the O2 sensor is removed. As far as the cat, you will know if it is bad by the back pressure. NOTE: When they plug, often times they will get so hot, they glow red hot.
Aug 31, 2011 at 7:08 PM
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MSMCCORKLE
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Thanks for the info, I appreciate it.
Aug 31, 2011 at 7:30 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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Glad to help. let me know if you run into other questions.

Joe
Aug 31, 2011 at 7:49 PM
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