Catalyst demetallization and process for using demetallized catalyst

In a hydrocarbon cracking process employing a catalyst to promote the cracking of a substantially hydrocarbon feedstock, the improvement comprising employing a demetallized catalyst obtained from a catalyst demetallization process, said catalyst comprising at least one synthetic crystalline material capable of promoting said hydrocarbon cracking, said catalyst demetallization process including the steps of contacting a metal contaminated cracking catalyst with at least one chlorine-containing component to form a chlorinated catalyst and contacting said chlorinated catalyst with at least one aqueous liquid composition substantially free of ammonium ions to produce a demetallized catalyst having a reduced content of said contaminant metal, provided that said chlorinated catalyst is cooled by at least about 50.degree. F. prior to the contacting of said chlorinated catalyst with said aqueous liquid composition substantially free of ammonium ions, thereby forming a demetallized catalyst with improved hydrocarbon cracking catalytic activity.