Catalytic converter damage
 

Hi All

I was looking to buy a T4 2.5TDI: the owner started it up - there was a little smoke and I put my hand in front of the exhaust for a brief moment to check for water and oil being thrown out. (There was none) However the owner said you must not do that, it can damage the catalytic converter.

We then went out for a drive, and lo - the catalytic converter was blocked - no power at all. He has since replaced the converter.

Is it actually possible I damaged the CC, or am I being set up?