Catalytic Converter (California) 97 4-Cyl

[kuehn49]

Anybody have experience purchasing and replacing the catalytic converter (the entire assembly with the flex pipe) on a 1997 LE 4 cylinder with California emissions? The hanger has already rusted off once and was temporarily fixed about 6 months ago. It sounds like a hole is opening up again. Also, the rear connection is well rusted. The heat shield is long gone... rusted off a few years ago. The entire assembly should probably be replaced. I'd like to purchase aftermarket, but would like some feedback on which manufacturers are a good bet for a Cali car. I'd prefer not to install the part and have the CEL come on.

Also, what other items (gaskets, etc.) should I be purchasing at this time?

Rock Auto has the part for $261 (Eastern Catalytics). The $260-$270 range seems to be the going rate.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[ONE_to_HATE]

wow.. i think that's pretty steep, a mom/pop exhaust shop should be able to put in one for about 190-210 and it should come with a 5 or more years of warranty, that's including parts/labor. - .. soo idk about 260-270 for just the part, and yes- mines is california too. good luck!

[kuehn49]

In case anybody is interested... I talked to a national muffler shop and they said they use Catco catalytic converters. I tracked one down locally ($270) and installed the new assembly (rear converter & flex pipe assembly) on Saturday. No check engine light yet, which was my main concern.

Just to be clear, the cat was fine, the rest of the pipe had numerous rust issues. The most recent problem was the pipe had almost rusted off in front of the rear flange. There was about an inch of material holding it on.