Lexus LX 470 1998, Owner'S Manual

Page: 185 / 337

STARTING AND DRIVING
168
THREE−WAY CATALYTIC
CONVERTER
31X001a
Three−way catalytic converters are emission control devices
installed in the exhaust system.
It looks somewhat like a muffler, but its purpose is to reduce
pollutants in the exhaust gas.
CAUTION
D
Keep people and combustible materials away from the
exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The exhaust gas
is very hot.
D
Do not drive, idle or park your vehicle over anything that
might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper or rags.
NOTICE
A large amount of unburned gases flowing into the three−way
catalytic converter may cause it to overheat and create a fire
hazard. To prevent this and other damage, observe the following
precautions:
D
Use only unleaded gasoline.
D
Do not drive with an extremely low fuel level; running out of
fuel could cause the engine to misfire, creating an excessive
load on the three−way catalytic converter.
D
Do not allow the engine to run at idle speed for more than 20
minutes.
D
Avoid racing the engine.
D
Do not push−start or pull−start your vehicle.
D
Do not turn off the ignition while the vehicle is moving.
D
Keep your engine in good running order. Malfunctions in the
engine electrical system, electric ignition system or fuel
system could cause an extremely high three−way catalytic
converter temperature.
D
If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently,
take your vehicle in for a check−up as soon as possible.
Remember, your Lexus dealer knows your vehicle and its
three−way catalytic converter system best.
D
To ensure that the three−way catalytic converter and the
entire emission control system operate properly, your vehicle
must receive the periodic inspections required by the Lexus
Maintenance Schedule. For scheduled maintenance
information, refer to the separate ”Owner’s Manual
Supplement/ Maintenance Schedule”.