catalytic converter, when to replace.

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Jan 4, 2015 | 07:55 PM

phillycincykid

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From: northern ky

catalytic converter, when to replace.

ill be replacing my muffler here soon, its rusted out blows smoke out all the rust holes, and so on. gonna replace with a nice flo master. Question is, when is it time to replace the catalytic converter? 15 years old and 93000 miles, it still seems like its in good shape, but could it be getting clogged? just from the sounds of the exhaust the past few months, it almost sounds like the truck is somewhat congested. The power from the engine is kinda week, but that's the engine itself. I have no real problems getting up to speed. my hesitation issues from before turned out to be water in the gas tank. Figured since im down there does it make sense just to bite the bullet and throw a new catalytic converter on?

Jan 4, 2015 | 09:33 PM

Tennesseepowerstroke

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From: Tennessee

I would replace it only if and when it would not pass emissions or it was clogged.......................................

Jan 4, 2015 | 09:43 PM

Vwags

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Joined: May 2014

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From: Southern California

I wouldn't do it until I had a reason to. Failed emission testing, MIL coming on with a code indicating a Cat failing etc.

Jan 4, 2015 | 09:50 PM

Tedster9

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From: Waterloo, Iowa

A vacuum gauge connected to manifold will indicate a restricted exhaust.

Jan 4, 2015 | 10:44 PM

Army RET

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From: Alabama

I have never replace a cat converter, but I trade off at 200,000 miles. YMMV.

Jan 5, 2015 | 02:19 PM

phillycincykid

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Joined: Jul 2013

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From: northern ky

we dont have emissions here in KY. im not a mechanic, i never heard of putting a vacuum gauge on the exhaust. what does that entail?

Jan 5, 2015 | 03:34 PM

Tedster9

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From: Waterloo, Iowa

They are great engine diagnostic and tuning tool. Think of it as a steampunk 1930s scantool. They are cheap too, maybe $15 or $20

Any source of constant engine vacuum will work, not the exhaust manifold, the intake. Typically used for just this kind of thing - adjusting engine timing, diagnosing valve problems, carb adjustments etc.

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Jan 5, 2015 | 08:41 PM

Tedster9

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Joined: Apr 2002

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From: Waterloo, Iowa

I'd have to look it up to be sure, but yes it's a matter of watching the needle. An exhaust restriction is detectable, definitely. Looks like Eric's page and YT video explains it pretty well. He is using the same gauge I have, a large face unit from Sears, bought one many years ago for some reason and one of my favorite "go to" tools.