Catalytic Converter leaking
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Junior User
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 84
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Catalytic Converter leaking
I have 98 2.5L with what I thought was a bad exhaust manifold gasket. So I replaced that on the weekend. Everything went well, but there is still a leak, but not as bad. Tonight I re-checked the torque on the bolts, everything was ok. So I while it ran, I was listening to the exhaust through a stethoscope. Discovered the noise was coming from the catalytic converter.
So I need to replace that. All the joints in the exhaust are welded. If I get one of those universal fit cats can I cut the old out and clamp in a new one? Are the $90.00 cats at Autozone any good? Thanks.
So I need to replace that. All the joints in the exhaust are welded. If I get one of those universal fit cats can I cut the old out and clamp in a new one? Are the $90.00 cats at Autozone any good? Thanks.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,940
Likes: 2
From: Eastern WA
The thing to watch out for on the low priced converters (especially universal fit ones) is to make sure you are not adding a restrictive one that increases backpressure. And that can happen with cheap ones; they make it pass emissions but with an undesireable side effect (performance hit). On the installation, I've found over the years that the best way to install exhaust components is to weld. If your local muffler shop thinks they deserve to make a killing installing a converter, I'd look into a friendly local service station in your area.
FTE Sponsor
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 662
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At the Motorhaven shop, we've got several Magnaflow converters ranging in the mid $60's, on our exhaust department and catalytic converter category page: www.motorhaven.com
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 1,436
Likes: 117
From: Virginia
Where exactly is it leaking from? Your truck is not that old. Not that it can't be bad, but it shouldn't be. If it is just leaking from a small area on a seam or something you can just have a muffler shop weld it up.
