Emission Control Systems — General Information (Opel Astra F)

All Opel Astra models can run on unleaded petrol (models with catalytic converter run ONLY on unleaded gasoline), however, additional systems can be installed (depending on the model) to reduce emissions that pollute the atmosphere. All models are equipped with a system for monitoring gases coming out of the engine crankcase.

Engine Crankcase Emission Control System

Oil vapors and gases that have broken through into the engine crankcase through the piston rings are drawn into the cylinder head area above the camshaft through a hose. From there they enter the intake manifold/throttle body (depending on availability) and/or into the air box located on the throttle body/carburetor, where they mix with the clean air/fuel mixture and burn.

Some models may have a mesh filter inside the camshaft cover, which, if clearly dirty, must be washed with kerosene.

Exhaust gas cleaning system

To reduce emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere, all models with fuel injection are equipped with a catalytic converter (see section "Catalytic converter", part "B" of this chapter), which is located in the exhaust system. The system is "closed", the oxygen sensor in the exhaust gases sends signals to the electronic control unit of the fuel system, which allows the air/fuel ratio in the mixture to be regulated within very strict limits.

(The source is on the online website: opelbook.ru)

Fuel vapor management system

To minimize the emission of unburned hydrocarbons into the atmosphere, some models are equipped with a fuel evaporation control system. The fuel tank filler neck is sealed to prevent the release of vapors into the atmosphere, and a box is located under the right wheel arch (with activated carbon) to absorb fuel vapors, from where they are directed into the intake tract and then into the engine cylinders, where they are burned.

Exhaust gas recirculation system

The exhaust gas recirculation system is designed to bypass small amounts of exhaust gases into the intake tract and subsequent combustion. This process reduces the level of nitrogen oxides emitted into the atmosphere.