Clogged catalytic converter now will not start?

2003 DODGE CARAVAN
178,000 MILES • 3.3L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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WILLIAM GASH
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  • 1 POST
Car gave catalytic converter codes, ran sluggishly, especially uphill, until it wouldn't get over 30 MPH. Tried to get back home but finally quit running. Cut exhaust behind cat and drilled holes through honeycomb. Used exhaust tape to mend the pipe but car won't fire. I'm going to try new plugs today, but as for now won't start.
Mar 12, 2023 at 6:22 AM
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STRAILER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 55,456 POSTS
Chances are the catalytic material has clogged the exhaust pipe but to be sure we can lose the cat from the exhaust manifold to see if the engine starts. Here is a guide to help with instructions in the images below to show you how:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-catalytic-converter

Let us know what happens and please upload pictures or videos of the problem so we can see what's going on.

Check out this guide as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-not-running-advanced

Please go over this guide and report back. Check out the images (below).
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Mar 13, 2023 at 2:42 AM
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