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Diagnostics using a 4 Gas Analyser
Before attempting to perform any diagnostics using a 4 gas analyser, it is important to
understand the equipment and the results obtained.
We shall begin with explaining the different gases tested :
Hydrocarbons (HC)Hydrocarbons are unburned or partially burnt fuel particles. High levels of HC,
measured in PPM (parts per million) in the exhaust gases, is usually due to
malfunctions in the ignition or fuel systems.
Carbon Monoxide (CO)Carbon monoxide is formed when there is insufficient oxygen present during
combustion and is measured as a percentage of exhaust gases. (CO - one part carbon
to one part oxygen) The most common cause of high CO is incorrect adjustment of
fuel mixtures. Refer to the relevant manufacturers manuals for correct setting
procedures.
Carbon Dioxide CO2CO2 - one part carbon to two parts oxygen. The greater the percentage of CO2 in the
exhaust gases, the more efficient the running of the engine, ideal specification for a 4
cylinder engine is between 13 and 16 %. If the CO2 level dropped too low, this would
indicate an incorrect air fuel mixture either caused by malfunctions in the
management system or incorrect adjustments.
Oxygen (O2)Oxygen is measured as a percentage of the exhaust gases and should be between 1 -
1.5% indicating an efficient combustion and air fuel mixture. Whilst adjustments are
being performed, it is important to note the changes in O2, as a sharp change of
between 0.5 - 1.0 % and 1.0 - 0.5 % will indicate the cross-over point from a rich or
lean mixture respectively. O2 measurement is also useful in detecting leaks and
misfiring as well as the efficiency of combustion.
Oxides of Nitrogen (Nox)Engines use O2 in the combustion process and exhaust Nitrogen (N2). This exhausted
N2 is exposed to high temperatures during the combustion process and is converted to
Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) when that temperature exceeds approx. 1370 degrees
Celsius. Although NOx compounds do not directly affect the efficiency of an engine,
they are responsible for smog when combined with HC. Part of the solution to
minimise NOx is the catalytic converter and the exhaust gas recirculation process.
