1998 S70 Lack of Power

RobF · Post by **RobF** » 08 Sep 2010, 06:30

My 1998 S70 with 370000 km runs smoothly but will not rev above 4000 rpm and has a very little power. I have checked the timing belt, compression ( 180 psi in each cylinder ), spark plugs and throttle body and all seem to be working correctly. I have not changed the fuel filter yet but I wasn't sure if this would cause this type of problem. A friend suggested a plugged catalytic converter which improved things when I took the car for a short drive up a steep hill with the Cat disconnected from the exhaust manifold. I am wondering if this does make sense and if the only solution to the problem is replacing the catalytic converter? Thanks

C@lvin · Post by **C@lvin** » 08 Sep 2010, 07:14

Is the CEL on? Have you checked the codes? I'd think you'd be getting several codes if the cat failed.......

Post by **jblackburn** » 08 Sep 2010, 08:44

I hope this makes sense...if it is just clogged but still functioning it will not throw any codes but will result in a huge loss of power. If it's just not doing its job actually converting the exhaust, then it will throw codes for the rear O2 sensor.

One quick test is to kick or smack the bottom of the converter...if you hear something that sounds gravelly inside, it's dead. If you can get it to rev over 4K with it disconnected, and feel more power...then that's also a sure sign it needs to be replaced.

RobF · Post by **RobF** » 08 Sep 2010, 09:07

The only code I get is PO413 which I believe is related to the air pump which hasn't worked now for several years. I take there is no other solution other than replacing the catalytic converter.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 08 Sep 2010, 19:06

Check your Intercooler lines. They can rub through on the underside or a hose clamp will come loose and the boost will get killed along with un-metered air to the intake.

...Lee