Hey all, I have searched through the tech files and can't find my answer. Dis my 02 7.3L come w a factory installed catalytic converter? I don't believe it did. In 2009 I installed a 4" Magnaflow exhaust. I remember there may have been a muffler but don't know about the cat. Is there a code embedded on the truck somewhere that proves one way or the other? Thanks.

 

I would think that somewhere on the underside of the hood should be a factory sticker stating if it has a cat. My '01 did not come with cat converter, but my '93 jeep did and it has a sticker under the hood stating such. This may not be required labeling though, im not sure.

 

Yep it will say non catalyst under the hood. I had a 30 minute argument when I had my emissions test over the same thing

 

If your 2002 7.3L has an automatic transmission, then NO, your truck was never originally equipped with a catalytic converter.

If your 2002 7.3L has a manual transmission, then YES, your truck was indeed originally equipped with a catalytic converter.

There is no digit in the VIN that indicates the presence or lack thereof on catalytic converters.

As others have said, there should be an emissions label under the hood that will say "NON-Catalyist" (if auto trans) or "Catalyst" (if manual trans).

Keep in mind, that the transmission rule of thumb does not apply to early 99, where all 7.3Ls had a cat, nor does it apply to 99.5 to 2001, where none of the 7.3L had a cat. This is probably why your state inspector is confused... because one cannot classify all the 99-03 7.3L Super Duties as having the same emissions.

If you don't have a label under your hood (over the rad support) or on your passenger side engine valve cover, and if your inspector still needs to see written proof from Ford, then you can provide the last 8 digits of your VIN to your local Ford dealer parts department, and request that an HVBOM (Historical Vehicle Bill Of Materials) be run. That print out will list every part applied to YOUR vin. This is different than looking up a part number to a CAT to see if it applies to your vehicle description. The general parts database is not as specific as the HVBOM, which is available for vehicles newer than 2001. Fortunately, you have a 2002.

Good luck in your fight! If you have an auto, you're in the right!

 

Success!!

I talked to a Ford rep on a 1-800# and was told that yes, my 7.3 automatic did not have a catalytic converter. I was told if I did, there would be a sticker to say it. I asked for a screenshot of her computer screen but she was told she was not allowed.
So, I called local dealer where the manager had to finally get involved. He was able to print out and fax to the inspector the schematic for my exhaust system.
It showed the plumbing for system with and without the cat.
Without the cat, it shows a #5246 Delete code.
The inspector then gave me my shiny new sticker!

Thank you all for your help!

 

I'll bet that inspector loved playing god for a day, while you jumped through all those hoops.