A fairly common occurrence for owners of cars with installed LPG equipment is the illuminated button " Check Engine”, About what this inscription means and why it happens, we examined in detail. Today, the topic of our article will be to consider a solution to one of the most common problems that can cause the inscription "Check Engine" - a failure of the lambda. The cheapest and most common solution to this problem is to install a lambda probe emulator. What is a lambda emulator and how does the "snag" help the owner of a car with LPG?
What is a lambda probe
To understand why to use a lambda blende (catalyst emulator), you must first understand the principle of operation of the probe itself. Often, modern car owners do not realize how “smart” (computerized) their cars have become. This process went gradually, from subsystem to subsystem - for example, the lambda probe appeared in serial cars in the last century. In fact, lambda is such a specialized sensor for measuring oxygen, which allows you to determine its residual amount in the exhaust of a car engine.
Based on the signal from this sensor, modern electronic vehicle control units (ECUs) decide how “lean” or “rich” (supersaturated with oxygen or fuel) the air-fuel mixture entering the internal combustion engine cylinders is. Factory configured with modern power units manufacturers usually focus on the so-called "stoichiometric" ratio of air to fuel:
- for gasoline ~ 14.7: 1,
- for liquefied gas ~ 15.4-15.6: 1,
- for methane ~ 17.2: 1
This value ensures the most complete combustion and the minimum content of associated harmful gases in the exhaust.
When using LPG, the problem is that the car already runs on a different fuel, and for its most complete and efficient combustion, a different ratio of components (gas and air) in the fuel-air mixture is required.
Thus, when installing gas equipment, not only the fuel on which the car moves, but also the oxygen content in the exhaust changes.
Of course, most HBO installers do not bother with tuning the car's ECU, informing him about the installed HBO. After several tens of kilometers, the lambda probe, responding to a change in the amount of oxygen in the exhaust, gives a signal about a malfunction, which does not know anything about the electronic control unit of the car installed by the LPG. And that, in turn, to the car owner, through the "Check Engine" indicator on the dashboard.
What is a lambda emulator for?
An emulator is a system or device designed to copy (or emulate) the functions of one system to another. Moreover emulated behavior should be as close as possible to the behavior of the original device.
Thus, the electronic emulator of the lambda probe intercepts and corrects the existing signal from the original oxygen sensor in such a way that the ECU injection engine did not give an error when the car was running on gas. Usually, a lambda probe emulator is installed on a car either immediately during the installation of LPG, or a little later, after an engine error has been detected.
Emulators "good" and "bad"
It is important to understand what exist as simple emulators lambda probe trompe l'oeil, and quite complex systems that adjust the readings of a standard oxygen sensor. The task of the first, most simple lambda trickery, is to prevent the appearance of the inscription "Check Engine" on the indicator, and to create the appearance of the correct operation of the system. But more advanced representatives of lambda emulators are designed to intercept the signal of the original sensor, correct it, and transmit the already corrected signal to the standard ECU, thereby improving the operation of the entire car.
Of course, the lambda probe snag is made from some general considerations so that the engine operating modes are more or less close to optimal. But a "good" emulator does this based on a real signal from the sensor, adjusting it in the right direction, according to the algorithms programmed in the emulator. It also takes into account the specifics of the original sensor used and the manufacturer.
Installing the lambda emulator
Installation and connection of the lambda probe emulator is done in the engine compartment of the car, in places that are protected from high temperatures and moisture. In addition, this place should at the same time ensure the ease of subsequent access to the device, because the operation of the device will need to be monitored, and if necessary, then adjustments. Typically, manufacturers / installers use the following connection color scheme:
- the blue conductor is connected to a gas / petrol switch or a relay (+ 12v must be supplied to the wire when the car is running on gas);
- the white conductor is connected to the vehicle ECU;
- blue and white conductor connects directly to the lambda probe;
- black conductor is connected to ground;
After the introduction of the Euro system standards in the European Union, all manufacturers have undertaken to establish optional equipment to control and reduce the level of toxic waste. Gasoline units were equipped with standard catalysts and oxygen sensors, diesel motors particulate filters. The system has proven its efficiency and effectiveness many times. Of course, for this, a number of conditions must be met, including the consumption of high-quality fuel.
After purchasing a car and its further operation on the territory of the CIS leads to premature failure of sections of the exhaust system and catalytic filler. The main reason is the low quality fuel used in the car. Moreover, this does not happen with a one-time use, but only on an ongoing basis. The increase in malfunctions leads to frequent visits to the service station to carry out repairs. Of course, all of these services are far from free. In order to save money, reduce the cost of maintenance of a technical facility, an effective solution has been found - an emulator of a lambda probe.
What is a lambda probe emulator?
The lambda probe emulator is a third-party equipment that is installed on a technical device in order to change the indicators of the toxicity level of the gas stream.
There are only two options for trickery:
- Metal spacer for lambda probe: is a threaded connection at both opposite ends of the product. Moreover, on the one hand, it is internal, on the other, external. Accordingly, for screwing onto the intake pipe and fitting the oxygen sensor into a metal case.
- Electronic emulator: installed near the location of the electronic motor control unit. Efficiency is ensured due to power supply from the ECU through electrical wiring.
Despite the fact that both products have different structures, technical characteristics, each of them is installed on the exhaust system of the car to "bring" the readings in accordance with the norms of the Euro standard.
Emulator 2 lambda probe and its characteristics
After removing the standard catalyst from the exhaust system of the car, its absence needs to be filled with something, since the system has data on its presence. The diagnostic second oxygen sensor will transmit incorrect composition data to the ECU exhaust gases... There is one condition - the car must have two lambda probes (upper and lower). They are often called monitoring and diagnostic. The performance of the entire system depends on the readings of the second (lower) sensor.
An electronic emulator consists of a microprocessor, a number of transistors, resistors, and other parts. Firmware is embedded inside the processor with data on toxicity level, fuel consumption and other characteristics. The product is not afraid of critical temperatures. Its working range is from -40 ° С to + 105 ° С. The duration of operation is virtually unlimited, provided the second oxygen sensor is used properly and is actually operational.
Electronic snag is installed on:
- cars from 2007 to 2012 of the Euro standard - 4 and 5;
- auto from 1998 to 2007 of Euro - 3 standard;
- absolutely all Lexus, Toyota models;
- German and Korean concerns Mercedes, Hyundai, Suzuki;
- all BMW, Audi models of Euro 4 and 5 standards.
In all other cases, a metal spacer is installed. From the list it follows that an electronic emulator is almost a universal tool for every transport mechanism.
How to install the emulator of the second lambda probe?
NOTE TO THE DRIVER: The emulator of the second lambda umbrella is recommended to be installed in the service station with the assistance of specialists. The mechanisms are so complex that sometimes experienced workers cannot always correctly diagnose a breakdown the first time. Third-party intervention from handicraftsmen will not give the desired positive result. There is a high probability of rendering the mechanism unusable. Craftsmen often have to eliminate the consequences of unprofessionalism.
Before starting work, you need to clearly know the structure and location of each unit in exhaust system... Make sure that there are two oxygen sensors in the structure, both of them are in good working order. An important point: the location of the diagnostic connector in the car. It is found in each brand differently. European brands install it under the steering column, Japanese brands between the seats, under the central torpedo on the passenger side. There are models with mounting under the rear row of seats. You need to know this, since electrical wiring will be connected to the contact socket for powering the blende current.
Installation work can be carried out without lifting the machine with an electric lift, the engine compartment and the passenger compartment are enough. Depending on the modification and technical characteristics equipment, the connection may not always work the first time. The main wires on the wiring of the second lambda probe: red, black or blue, white. The connection takes place by means of a conventional insert followed by soldering of the contacts.
You can check the performance of the equipment by looking at dashboard, namely the readings of the voltmeter. In the process of working on idle the data should be 0.6 Volts, this is the average. Each brand may have a minor branch. With a sharp press on the pedal, the data increases to 0.75 V, with a cut-off - 0.15 V. If you see a discrepancy, then the problem is in the connection itself or in the sensor's health.
Do not forget that the ratio of the mixture: enriched or depleted depends on the performance of the second emulator. Because modern motors are adjusted to the lean mixture, the emulator also adjusts the ratio.
Signs of a malfunction of the oxygen sensor and its emulator
Other modification of electronic emulators
- SK-02: if the first zirconia lambda probe is installed. As practice shows, these are mostly vehicles produced in 2003-2004, with the exception of some models Ssang yong, Honda.
- SK-02a: modified version with additional adjustment for cars during the production period from 2005 to 2007.
- SK-06: the rest of the Vehicle not included in the above list.
- SK-05: purely diesel option with Euro standards of the third generation, not lower.
In order to properly carry out the installation and adjustment work, it is necessary to fully make sure that there are two oxygen sensors on the exhaust system of the car. Otherwise, nothing will work with one lambda probe.
Stock! When ordering a service for replacing a catalyst with a turnkey flame arrester, a discount on electronic snag of a lambda probe is 50%.
Electronic snag of the AIS catalyst - buy directly from the manufacturer!
DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF OUR DEVICE
- small size (1 by 2 cm)
- reliable design solution with a minimum of elements (high fault tolerance)
- factory execution
- 100% compatible with all types of ECUs for gasoline engines(each manufacturer has its own version (in the same case), taking into account the peculiarities of the software and hardware of the central control unit)
- Euro 3, 4, 5, 6 support
- no intervention in the software part of the ECU
ADVANTAGES OF WORKING WITH OUR DEVICE
- 2 versions: for indoor and outdoor installation
- complete set for quick installation: wiring, emulator, protective cover
- free technical support directly from the developer (help, etc.)
- Warranty - 1 year
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The AIS emulator is electronic device based on the PIC12F629 microcontroller, which works according to a certain algorithm, simulating the correct signal for the ECU. Mechanical "bogus", which are offered in most workshops, have a slightly lower cost, but they work only on machines of the past and the beginning of this century. This "whistle" will not work on more modern ones! And even if the Check Engine malfunction lamp does not light up, this does not mean at all that the engine control system is working correctly. Most likely, it will work in emergency mode, warming up the missing converter with exhaust gases due to more fuel and a decrease in the driving qualities of the car. It threatens increased consumption gasoline and other disorders. The emulator we have developed works correctly on all modern cars(including the most recent). It is installed in the gap of the oxygen sensor, or connected to the corresponding wires in the car wiring.
In this form, they come from the factory. In this form, they are sent to you (without a lighter). Complete set - all that remains is to connect the wires.
BRIEF REFERENCE
The 2nd lambda probe after the catalyst, on cars from 1998, means that your car complies with the Euro-3 environmental program and above and makes it impossible to drive without a catalyst or replacing it with a flame arrester. It requires reprogramming to Euro-2 or installing a controller (of our own production, designed and developed by our employees, with intelligible technical support if anything happens) and a sensor correcting information. In this case, the ECU will be sure that there is a catalyst that performs all its functions properly.
Electronic snag of a lambda probe + flame arrester, which works as quietly as a standard one, is by far the best solution to the problem with your car's catalysts.
You can buy an electronic snag of a lambda probe separately and install it on your car yourself, or you can do the whole range of work using the promotion (the essence of which is indicated at the top of the page) with us.
How to determine catalyst wear?
There are three main reasons for catalyst failure - loss of catalyst efficiency, degradation and melting.
For a reflow test, replace the oxygen sensor with a pressure gauge and measure the pressure in the exhaust system. If in different operating modes the pressure exceeds 0.5 atm (Kg / cm2), the catalytic converter is melted.
If the readings of the lambda probes before and after the catalyst coincide, this means that the catalyst has lost its emissivity (efficiency).
The effectiveness of the catalyst can be checked in another way. Warm up the engine (half an hour ride). After that, using a thermo-gun (pyrometer), check the temperature at the welding seam before and after the catalyst, if the temperature behind the catalyst is the same or lower, then the catalyst is faulty.
In the event that something rumbles inside the catalyst, an urgent need to take action. Otherwise, debris inside can damage the engine.
FAQ
1. Does it work exactly?- Yes, we give a 2-year guarantee for the result. Complete with the emulator, you will receive instructions and a warranty card. The law also gives the right to return the goods within 2 weeks without explanation.
2. Will I be able to get support?- yes, you can consult by phone, skype or e-mail. All issues can be resolved.
3. What emulator do I need for my car?- at the top of this page there is a form for selecting an emulator by car.
4. Where can I install the emulator?- from our representatives. Any auto electrician can also install.
5. The rear lambda probe does not work for me. Can an emulator bypass it?- yes, it can be absolutely on all cars. If the front lambda is wideband, with a current signal (AFR, LAF sensor), then the SK-08 emulator is installed. If the rear probe is faulty, the signal for the emulator is taken from the front probe. If the heater in the rear lambda probe is faulty, then instead of the heater, a resistor of about 10 Ohm with a power of 10 W is additionally connected.
6. Is it possible not to remove the catalyst?- it is possible if it is mechanically whole (not melted, does not ring, the engine thrust is normal) and the front lambda with a 0 ... 1 volt signal (exceptions in the previous question). The reference signal for the emulator in this case is taken from the front lambda.
7. Is it obligatory to install a stronger (flame arrester)?- optional, but desirable. It only affects the exhaust sound. Without a stronger, the exhaust will not burn out faster (popular opinion), since after a working catalyst, the temperature is always higher than before. We went before without a catalyst ...
8. Will the consumption decrease after installing the emulator?- if you have an overestimated expense now, then it should decrease. On Euro-4 and 5 cars, the rear lambda feels in the preparation of the fuel mixture and the consumption directly depends on the state of the catalyst. On Euro-3 cars and below, consumption can be reduced due to the transition of the engine from emergency mode to normal mode. Consumption can also be reduced if you had a molten catalyst.
9. Why is the emulator better than software removal?- the car continues to drive according to the factory program, no intervention in the engine control unit is performed. Illiterate software deletion can lead to the fact that the malfunction lamp on the instrument panel will never light up at all - untimely troubleshooting can lead to engine damage. With programmed allotment, the operating modes of the motor can change and no one knows how this will affect it.
10. I have HBO installed, an error on the catalyst constantly appears, no one can do anything .... - We often face this problem. First you need to try to ride on gasoline. If there are no problems with gasoline, then the problem is HBO. You can read more in this article.
It is clear that, in response to the amount of oxygen in the exhaust gases, it produces a voltage of 0.1 - 0.2V (lean mixture) or 0.8-0.9V (rich mixture). The electronic control unit (ECU) of the engine constantly changes the amount of injected fuel - a lean mixture enriches, a rich one depletes. Thus, the optimum is maintained, and the signal on the Lambda probe at the same time looks (can be viewed with an oscilloscope) as a series of pulses of equal duration, almost rectangular (important!), With a swing from 0.1 - 0.2V to 0.8-0.9V ...
This is how everything works as long as the autoregulation circuit is closed, which includes an engine with a "body kit", an ECU and a Lambda Probe. The chain starts to work poorly if you take care of economy and ecology and supply gas equipment (LPG).
For a single injection engine, a simple ejector system is sufficient. Only here is yellow Check light The engine starts to burn constantly, and when driving on gasoline, a solid overrun appears.
There is an opinion that the gas is to blame. Allegedly, the Lambda Probe is "accustomed" to gasoline, and "he goes crazy on gas."
In fact, everything is much simpler. The Lambda Probe doesn't care what kind of fuel it burns. It continues to respond to the amount of oxygen in the exhaust just as well. But his reaction does not affect the operation of the engine in any way - after all, the automatic control circuit is broken. If earlier, in response to a signal about rich mixture, The ECU reduced the supply of gasoline (for a shorter time, including the nozzle), and enriched the signal about the lean, maintaining the stoichiometric mixture, then when working with gas, the ECU cannot influence the LPG ejector system in any way.
Seeing that there is no reaction, the ECU lights up the Check Engine light and switches to the "emergency" mode. When driving on gas, this does not affect its consumption in any way, since it is determined by the LPG setting. But when switching to gasoline, consumption will rise sharply because “ emergency mode"Remains in the ECU memory.
For normal operation of the engine on gas, the Lambda-Probe Emulator is just needed. His task is to deceive the ECU, while working on gas, to show that everything is in order. It does this very simply: it gives out a signal similar to the reaction of a real Lambda probe during normal operation.
The emulator will give out 0.1V, the ECU will begin to enrich the mixture, the emulator will give out 0.9V. The ECU will begin to lean the mixture, as it happens when running on gasoline. Thus, the Check Engine light does not light up, and the ECU does not go into emergency mode.
You can buy a ready-made emulator, you can make it yourself according to a simple scheme, the main thing is to connect it correctly.
A simple diagram of the Lambda Probe Emulator
The lambda probe emulator is assembled on the most popular microcircuit. Resistor R1 sets the pulse frequency (1-2 per second), the LED indicates the operation of the device. During normal operation, the voltage on it does not exceed 1.8V. The resistor R6 will have exactly half, i.e. 0.9V or 0V.
The circuit receives power from the LPG switch, the relay is triggered and connects the device output (K2) to the ECU input (K3).
When the HBO is turned off, the relay releases and the ECU input is connected to the lambda probe (K1), i.e. the device is switched on in the wire break from the Lambda probe to the ECU.
There are many options commercially available. Some manufacturers are introducing an additional two or three LEDs to signal the quality of the mixture.
This is not difficult to do, because the Lambda probe continues to perform its functions in terms of issuing a signal. This means that if you connect two threshold devices to the Lambda probe - one for 0.1V, the other for 0.9V, then they will light up the corresponding LEDs at the appropriate times.
Thus, it is possible, as a first approximation, to determine the quality of the mixture when working on gas.
So, if you decide to put an ejector LPG on an engine with "monoinjection", you cannot do without the Lambda-Probe Emulator.
In all other cases (replacement faulty L-Z or something similar) it is absolutely useless.
