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An engine test has been developed to assess the impact of volatile phosphorus from passenger car engine oils on catalytic converter efficiency. The ten-day, steady-state, catalyst aging test was established to promote the production and consumption of volatile phosphorus species contained in crankcase vapors that are evacuated and combusted via the PCV system. A system for sampling, analyzing and identifying crankcase vapors led to a greater understanding of the phosphorus-based poisoning mechanism. Catalytic converter conversion efficiency was assessed through an engine-based system that swept catalyst inlet temperature from low to high while using a constant flow of controlled exhaust gas. The test results indicate correct ranking of field-tested oils that have catalyst poisoning data.

In-use vehicle regional inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs in the United States (US) and Canada generate a tremendous volume of data that provides a means for evaluating vehicle emissions compliance in actual consumer use. In this study, IM240 test data for several 1996 to 2001 vehicle models are analyzed from different regional programs in the US and Canada to confirm the suitability of using these data for evaluation of vehicles equipped with advanced emission control technology and to examine the various potential factors responsible for emissions noncompliance. Relative comparisons between US and Canadian program data are made for vehicle models used in the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers (AAM) MMT® Test Program to examine the potential impact of differences in fuel properties on consumer experience and vehicle compliance.