Should I trash the Catalytic Converter?

nhawlman · #1 (**permalink**) 06-23-2009, 08:17 AM

I just bought a 1-owner 1992 six with 144,000 miles. It runs like a jewel, but needs shocks and exhaust; both are rusted to pieces.
There is a fitting on top of the exhaust near the catalytic converter. What should this connect to, and what is its purpose?

Am I better off to replace the whole mess with a straight pipe; maybe a muffler?
What about larger diameter exhaust/tail pipes for performance/fuel economy?

Thanks
Nevin

Bear River · #2 (**permalink**) 06-23-2009, 10:20 AM

Why not just run a cat back? No need to get rid of the cats, they are made from 409 stainless steel. It may look rusty, but that does take a while to rot through. The rest of the system is not stainless however.

Many users report the I6 does not sound right straight piped, though other people love it. I have never heard a straight piped I6 I liked. Chambered mufflers seem to help deepen the sound, I recommend the FM 50 series. Would be interested in others input as well. If the cat is not broken or plugged, it can help produce more power, though for how old your system is, it probably doesn't do much.

PauL3861 · #3 (**permalink**) 06-23-2009, 11:34 AM

That fitting is or should be in fromt of the cat; just in case you want to lose the cat. I would be careful due to inspection requirements which vary from state to state.......I haave to agree with the Flowmasters. I got rid of my cat and went with 3" to a FM50 series with 3" straight out the back. I'm running a 351W however......It sounds great!!!!!!

nhawlman · #4 (**permalink**) 06-23-2009, 12:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bear River

Why not just run a cat back? No need to get rid of the cats, they are made from 409 stainless steel. It may look rusty, but that does take a while to rot through. The rest of the system is not stainless however.

Many users report the I6 does not sound right straight piped, though other people love it. I have never heard a straight piped I6 I liked. Chambered mufflers seem to help deepen the sound, I recommend the FM 50 series. Would be interested in others input as well. If the cat is not broken or plugged, it can help produce more power, though for how old your system is, it probably doesn't do much.

================================================== ====
How can I tell if it's plugged?
Can you see through them?

Nevin

Bear River · #5 (**permalink**) 06-24-2009, 09:55 AM

If its plugged, the truck will run like crap and won't be able to move very fast. The effect would be noticeable right after startup.