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Removing my catalytic converter questions

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Old 08-31-2012, 11:01 AM
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Removing my catalytic converter questions

Thinking about removing my catalytic converter and throwing on some longer exhaust tips so my plastic doesn't melt from any flames.

My plan is to install some flanges so when sticker time rolls around I can unbolt the straight pipe and toss the cat. back in. Then order a COBB access port in a month or two and re-tune it.

Any suggestions or experiences with it?
Old 08-31-2012, 11:34 AM
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Unbolt cat, put in 'test pipe', how could it get much simpler?

Don't waste your time trying to cut it out and flange it - when you see it, you'll see that's pointless.
Old 08-31-2012, 11:38 AM
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The cat has 3 bolts in the front, 2 in the rear, plus the rubber exhaust hanger. I don't think it gets any easier than that. Fewer bolts would mean less of a seal at each end. I can swap between my midpipe and cat in about 20 minutes, starting with the car on the ground and the jack and stands put away.


Biggest problem point with swapping is usually rusty bolts/nuts. If your cat has never been removed, take the car to a shop and have them replace the hardware. You can find generic replacement bolts for a few bucks from any auto-parts store. Don't use hardware store bolts, as they will rust insanely fast. If you expect to remove it regularly, then you can replace the hardware as needed to keep it rust free.

Last edited by RIWWP; 08-31-2012 at 11:42 AM.
Old 08-31-2012, 11:52 AM
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also word of advice, when you plan on doing it, make sure the car is cold..
Old 08-31-2012, 12:17 PM
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Front 3-bolt joint has to be undone from the front, the bolts go thru from the back and are splined in.
Old 08-31-2012, 12:18 PM
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Forgot that bit. Been a few years since I had the splined bolts.
Old 08-31-2012, 12:26 PM
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Im not talking bout it being hard or anything just peoples experience without the cats like CEL, if it runs smoother, I assume not as much head coming through the center console. The other day i reached into my ash tray to grab quarters for a toll and damn near burnt my fingers on the quarters, I dropped them everywhere they were so hot.
Old 08-31-2012, 12:40 PM
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The only down side of running catless is the smell.
Once you have the AP you can delete the cel.
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