After all the many helpful replies I received about my loss of power problem
I wanted to report that last Thursday finally made the decision to get the
catalytic converter replaced by a Meineke shop on the calculated probability
that the CC was the culprit. Turns out that the CC was VERY clogged (as the
technician showed me, once he had removed it). The new one cost $235
installed, which is a far cry from the $800-plus VW wanted.
The Eurovan now runs fine, without the progressive power loss and heat I was
having, and I fully expect to survive at least long enough to witness the
turn of the millennium.
But a few points:
Since the installation of the new CC, I can tell that I am getting just a
little less power when accelerating than I used to have (before the CC
problem). This is more noticeable in 4th and 5th gears, especially if I am
climbing. Should I be concerned about this? I'm assuming the air flow on
the new CC (being generic) may be a little different than on the standard VW
part.
The technician who replaced the CC told me that they don't fail on their
own, and that something damaged mine; and he advised me to try to find out
what the cause was. He suggested ignition system problems, distributor
problems, backfiring, etc.
Again, thanks to all who helped me on this.
