RX7 FC Cat Converter on 2005 RX8
10-18-2017, 02:08 AM
#1
Registered
Thread Starter
RX7 FC Cat Converter on 2005 RX8
So, I'm looking at getting an 8 soon to replace my FC (Bless that car), but every one I look at in my price range has a catch to it. Most just are at that mileage on the original motor that makes me kinda weary, and none of the owners want to get a compression test done. I am not about to fork over $200 for every 8 I look at just so the owner has the numbers. And a few I've looked at already have had some signs of low compression (hard hot starts and weak idle). Another one I've seen had that, and a failing motor mount to boot.
Now a few that I'll be looking at this week have had rebuilds done recently (30k ago on the one I'm curious about in specific), but have CELs on. Specifically CEL P0420 and P2259. I know the 2259 code is by a faulty solenoid, and I'm positive I can fix that myself. However, the 0420 code is for a bad/failing cat as I've read, and living in CA the struggle is real. So what I was wondering, is if I could take the cat I cut off of my '91 NA FC, and use it in place of the failing cat on the 8 and pass smog/get rid of the CEL. I've looked up and haven't found much of anyone attempting or discussing this before.
Now a few that I'll be looking at this week have had rebuilds done recently (30k ago on the one I'm curious about in specific), but have CELs on. Specifically CEL P0420 and P2259. I know the 2259 code is by a faulty solenoid, and I'm positive I can fix that myself. However, the 0420 code is for a bad/failing cat as I've read, and living in CA the struggle is real. So what I was wondering, is if I could take the cat I cut off of my '91 NA FC, and use it in place of the failing cat on the 8 and pass smog/get rid of the CEL. I've looked up and haven't found much of anyone attempting or discussing this before.
10-18-2017, 05:37 AM
#2
RX-Heaven
iTrader: (6)
P0420 is a catalyst inefficiency code. It could mean several things. Yes, the converter can be failing, but it can also mean there is an exhaust leak, and it could also be the sign of a failing oxygen sensor. Take those into consideration before condemning the cat. The FC converter is not a direct bolt up. I'm sure that you could fab it up and make it work but for the money spent on that you could find a good used original converter and install it. A lot of people remove them to go with an aftermarket exhaust setup and I'm sure would be willing to part with them cheaply.
If you are ambitious enough, purchase a rotary compression tester. I bought one from www.rotarycompressiontester.com and it has been one of the best tool investments I have made in the last 20 years. Learn how to do a proper compression test and every car you look at, run a compression test. Yes, its some work but the end result will be worth it and when you do get an 8 you will be able to runa compression test any time you would like at no charge.
If you are ambitious enough, purchase a rotary compression tester. I bought one from www.rotarycompressiontester.com and it has been one of the best tool investments I have made in the last 20 years. Learn how to do a proper compression test and every car you look at, run a compression test. Yes, its some work but the end result will be worth it and when you do get an 8 you will be able to runa compression test any time you would like at no charge.
10-18-2017, 06:08 PM
#3
Registered
Thread Starter
P0420 is a catalyst inefficiency code. It could mean several things. Yes, the converter can be failing, but it can also mean there is an exhaust leak, and it could also be the sign of a failing oxygen sensor. Take those into consideration before condemning the cat. The FC converter is not a direct bolt up. I'm sure that you could fab it up and make it work but for the money spent on that you could find a good used original converter and install it. A lot of people remove them to go with an aftermarket exhaust setup and I'm sure would be willing to part with them cheaply.
If you are ambitious enough, purchase a rotary compression tester. I bought one from www.rotarycompressiontester.com and it has been one of the best tool investments I have made in the last 20 years. Learn how to do a proper compression test and every car you look at, run a compression test. Yes, its some work but the end result will be worth it and when you do get an 8 you will be able to runa compression test any time you would like at no charge.
If you are ambitious enough, purchase a rotary compression tester. I bought one from www.rotarycompressiontester.com and it has been one of the best tool investments I have made in the last 20 years. Learn how to do a proper compression test and every car you look at, run a compression test. Yes, its some work but the end result will be worth it and when you do get an 8 you will be able to runa compression test any time you would like at no charge.
And now I'm split between a freshly built 8 from Renown Racing that has 2k miles on it, and the one from my earlier post.
10-19-2017, 06:40 PM
#4
I think most owners would want a compression test done. Every potential buyer will ask for the numbers and it's just another factor in detaining the worth of the car. I mean without proof to the contrary, I think you have to factor in the engine rebuild into the ownership of the car. And if course that figure is different for every owner.
Unless they are trying to dup you. I would expect that they would be okay with it from a serious buyer.
Unless they are trying to dup you. I would expect that they would be okay with it from a serious buyer.