changing the cat
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New User
Joined: Nov 1999
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changing the cat
How hard is it to install a new cat on a '90 F150 with 300 I6, or pull the old one to inspect it? What will this cost? I've surfed around and only found one place on the Net...offering a replacement for about $175 (ouch!). Know it ain't cheap, but need a better price. Am I better off letting my local muffler shop do this or can I do it myself and save some moolah? Truck runs okay, plenty of power...just real smelly, especially with low-octane gas (Phew!)
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Joined: Jun 1999
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From: saramento usa
changing the cat
I'm not sure what cats you looked at or what type of setup you have. I assume you have a single cat with an air tube and maybe even a sensor. Anyway, DynoMax makes mufflers and cats. When I went true duals on my 351W, I put on two 12" DynoMax universal cats with 2 1/4" pipe on mine. DynoMax also carries a good line of replacement cats for your year and engine. Catgo also makes cats and don't forget your local parts stores (Advanced, AutoZone, NAPA, etc.). My cat was welded on and the heat shield was rusted on and while I cut my old cat out, I had a muffler shop weld the cats back in. They install just like a muffler so I guess you can judge from that whether or not you want to tackle that job (I hate exhaust work!!!).
Hope that helps,
Slik
Hope that helps,
Slik
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changing the cat
One cheap way for inspection is to cut the original convertor off with a hacksaw. A Sawzall will buzz through one in just a few seconds. Once off you can inspect it. Most auto stores sell the 18" flex pipe and clamp repair kit for 4-5 dollars. You can then pop on the flex pipe for a real power test and see if the smell disappears. If you feel the old convertor is still good just drive over to the muffler shop and have it welded back on. Post back if it gets any louder with or without the convertor. I would be interested to hear the results. Good Luck, Chris...
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changing the cat
I have an 89 F150, IL6. Just break the law and cut the cat off. I cut mine off and put a Flowmaster Muffler on it. Even though it is a 6 cylinder engine, it still sounds pretty beastly. In addition to that i do get a bit better gas millage. That is my suggestion to you, but if your state does have emissions tests... dont even think about it.
