Overheating is usually caused by issues within the cooling system itself, such as:
* Low coolant levels: This is the most common cause.
* Faulty thermostat: A stuck closed thermostat prevents coolant from circulating properly.
* Water pump failure: The water pump circulates the coolant; a failure stops this circulation.
* Radiator issues: A clogged or damaged radiator restricts coolant flow.
* Leaking hoses or radiator: Loss of coolant will lead to overheating.
* Head gasket failure: A blown head gasket allows coolant to mix with oil or escape, leading to overheating.
* Cooling fan malfunction: The fan helps dissipate heat; a faulty fan can cause overheating, especially at idle.
While a severely clogged catalytic converter could *indirectly* contribute to overheating by restricting exhaust flow and increasing engine temperatures slightly, this is rare and usually only observed under heavy load for an extended period. The temperature increase would typically not be enough to cause a full-blown overheat situation. If the catalytic converter is completely blocked, you'd likely see other more obvious symptoms first, such as a significant loss of power and potentially engine backfires.
If your 1994 Camaro is overheating, focus your investigation on the cooling system components listed above. A clogged catalytic converter is a separate issue that should be addressed, but it's not the likely culprit for overheating.
