1984 QV slow down light issue

Took my 308QV out this morning. After a few miles, I got the steady "slow down" light. Since I was only 3-4 miles from home, I decided to turn around and nurse it back home. Upon arriving, I checked the rear exhaust--very, very hot. Some smoke was coming from the exhaust system, but the engine itself was not overly hot. I have several assumptions: first, I assume that the catalytic converter is malfunctioning. Second, I assume that I can remove it myself with moderate skills. Third, I assume that there are Houston-area folks who can either repair or replace the converter. Are my assumptions correct (of course, I'll have follow-up questions)?

Andrew

Andrew

Normally it is because fuel is being dumped into the cat. Sometimes on QVs one cylinder bank will shut down from a flywheel sensor, coil, coil wire, digiplex etc. and cause the unburnt fuel to make its way down to the cat. Anyway you might want to verify spark on all cylinders.