Catalytic Converters?

[Scimmia]

Originally Posted By: Kestas
While we're on the subject, it seems from the posts that replacement cats are substantially subpar, and it stands to reason that a used cat may be the best solution. Yet it is illegal for salvage yards to sell cats. What is the best route for a BITOGer to replace a cat? There's none on eBay. Perhaps a private sale where a car is being parted out, i.e., craigslist?


Legally, for a used cat to be sold for reuse even by a private seller, it has to be tested and re-certified. If you want to follow the law, craigslist is out.

Used cats can be sold for metal recycling, but hey have to be made so that they can't be reinstalled on a car.

 

[JTK]

Originally Posted By: alreadygone

Think most of the negative feedback here for aftrmarket stems from NOT repairing the root problem that caused the original cat to go bad.
Bob


Well said as usual Bob. This whole cat/replacement thing on an 'aged' vehicle scares the heck out of me. Replacement components can easily exceed the value of the vehicle! Like you say, the key is to fix any upstream concerns ASAP and hopefully the cats live as long as the vehicle they are on.

Joel

 

[JHZR2]

Originally Posted By: Oilgal

On second thought.

I think I may get that OEM IMCO cat I was offered today. He had the best price too. I thought it was likely a 'get what you pay for' thing until now. Does $160 installed for that sound right to you guys?



Platinum, pallaidum and rhodium are all VERY expensive. Pt is whatm nearly $1000/oz?

You are NOT getting any real metal on your cat if you are buying a $160 piece. Youll have something that is just barely not failing.

If that gives you peace of mind, well, go for it. IMO, you arent doing much good with it, as the pollution produced for metal reclamation and production of the corderite matrix is likely worse than the actual "cleaning" that the catalytic activity the aftermarket cat provides, will give.

If youre not tested for emissions, Id get rid of the cat and run a dummy post-cat sensor, rather than buy something that is marginal at best. I dont think youre doing any favors in the clean air department with something that marginally works.

If you ever have to test for CA emissions, then go back and get an OE cat. Save the money in the meantime, junk is junk and you get what you pay for.

Good luck,

JMH

 

[Oilgal]

Thank you JMH. I will take what you say into account.