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This paper explores a method to preheat an automobile catalytic converter using the energy released by a simple exothermic chemical reaction. Because a large percent of automobile use is for short distances and because catalytic converters are very inefficient before they are heated to operating temperature, it is becoming more imperative that converters be preheated before engine startup. Major R and D efforts by many companies have made significant advances in converter preheating using a variety of methods including electric, flame, location, thermal battery, etc. While offering major improvements, each of these methods also has its limitations. The method suggested in this paper is totally unique from these others. A chemical reaction is initiated internally within the catalytic converter when the engine ignition switch is turned on.