Need to replace Catalytic Converter

ASSISTANCE Stock Engine-Bay Components
1

I have a 92 LS and need to replace the Catalytic converter before I smog this year.
I searched but didn’t really see the answer I was looking for…I have a stock exhaust system and just want to replace the cat but was wondering if I could use a high flow or better quality cat with the stock system? Will I need to have flanges welded on or is there a cat that can bolt right up and pass Socal smog laws?
Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

2

I bought a brand new direct fit magnaflow cat for just over 100. Its not high flow but i’m sure it flows better than stock.

3

Did it bolt right in? Do the universal ones work as well and are they difficult to install?

4

yes it did. The universal ones are just the cat, it wont come with any flanges. You’ll have to get them welded on.

5

I was looking on Summit and other sites and the direct fit Cats by Magnaflow say they are 49 state legal except California? I know I am being a pain in the ass but what gives? Can I still replace mine with a Magnaflow and still pass smog? I am running a stock exhaust and motor. Thanks.

6

I’ve heard nothing but good about the cats which SMS Products sells: http://www.sms-products.com/ I ordered a cat and all of the bits from them and I plan to weld it up myself (it will still be bolt on like stock). It’s not the cheapest route, but if you’re looking for great flow and need to run a cat it’s a great option. Oh, and they will do all the welding for you if you just tell them the length you need (I will be messing w/ the length of my header and cat-back so I wanted to do mine myself).

There are tons of good references and dyno charts available on honda-tech regarding these cats…

7

magnaflow cat

i may be too late but thought i’d reply anyway since i’m about to change my cat as well. the magnaflow cat should work just fine for obd1 vehicles (pre-1996) per strict california smog regulations. as long as your exhaust is all stock it should bolt right up. i found one on ebay for about $106 with free shipping. hope this helps.

8

Here’s the kicker now…As of Jan. 2009, California is requiring new catalytic converters on all pre-OBD2 vehicles.

All aftermarket cats sold in California have to meet stricter guidelines:

All cats will now have an Executive Order number stamped on the cat itself.

Here is a list of those that are legal:
http://www.arb.ca.gov/msprog/aftermktcat/aftermktcat.htm

The thing that makes me mad is that I had priced out a direct fit replacement from Magnaflow from Summit and it was $106.00. Now that the new regulations are in effect, the “new” cat is $200.00! Not for nothing but I am not made of money and now it is going to cost me almost twice as much!

I like living here in California but the CARB needs to “lighten up Francis”!!