Is a broken-up catalyst preventing my Vauxhall Astra from starting?

Can a totally blocked catalyst shred a timing belt? I had my Vauxhall Astra 16v's timing belt replaced and new valves and guides fitted, and on completion, the car wouldn't start due to the catalyst being blocked.

Asked on 21 August 2010 by fozed

Answered by Honest John
No. But if the cat has broken up it will block the exhaust so the engine cannot breathe, which is why it won't start.
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