Topic: Catalytic Converter Removal??
in Forum: C3 Fuel, Emission Control, and Exhaust Systems
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Did you hear about the lawyer who discovered that a client had inadvertantly given him TWO $100 bills to setlle a $100 debt??
The attorney struggled with the moral question; "Should I tell my partner??"
My moral question relates to the possible removal of the cat converter from my '79.
Now first let me say that I am very GREEN. I recycle everything. But I question if a converter that is nearly 30 years old does anything. And I know they run very hot, and if clogged cause performance problems and may add to pollution.
My question to the jury then, what effect would removing the converter have?
I am thinking of going to side pipes.
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Frederick, MD - USA
Joined: 9/8/2003
Posts: 3398
Vette(s): 1969 convertible L71 427/435 4-speed black interior
Remove the converter if your state doesn't perform emissions tests anymore after the car reaches a certain age...usually 25 years, but not all states allow it.
If your converter is partially or fully clogged, it will definitely run better. Even if it is operating OK, remove it and install a true dual exhaust system (or sidepipes) and the lessened back pressure will free up some horsepower and the car will run better...maybe cooler. No converter also will lessen the heat under the floorboards.
If your converter is partially or fully clogged, it will definitely run better. Even if it is operating OK, remove it and install a true dual exhaust system (or sidepipes) and the lessened back pressure will free up some horsepower and the car will run better...maybe cooler. No converter also will lessen the heat under the floorboards.
Lifetime MemberHOWELL, NJ - USA
Joined: 5/18/2004
Posts: 6812
Vette(s): 1979, Targa Blue (72 Color), Pace Car rear spoiler, L88 hood, Dark blue factory interior, 525HP 406, HD 700R4, 370 gears,Steeroids, composite rear spring, TT IIs wrapped in T/A Radials.
Emissions go out the window when the converter is removed. A tough decision for a GREEN preson.
Then again, as Gunslinger mentioned, it's like giving your motor a get out of jail free card...
However, there are more expensive routes, for example, upgrading to a high performance converter....
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Lifetime MemberGreensburg, IN - USA
Joined: 9/24/2003
Posts: 5188
Vette(s): Previous: 1984 Silver / Charcoal Coupe, 1988 Maroon Coupe / 1989 Artic White Coupe / 2001 Speedway White Roadster / Present:1976 Stingray Black / Black, Auto, 350 slightly modified (355 hp) Luxor Wires Redline Tires. / 1989 Roadster Bright Red...
Headers ... Converter ... whatz that ??? Let me think... ya reckon the Harley guyz have converters on their bikes? NOT.... Take it off & rest your green mind. Let that car breath. 
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Tecumseh, MI - USA
Joined: 9/14/2003
Posts: 221
Vette(s): 1980 all org. with 18000 act. miles dk claret with matching interior..Eagle alloys ..loaded..excellent cond.
Year's ago, they use to sell a (test pipe) which replaced the converter. Wish I could get my hands on one now. Put one on my first 80 years ago, what a difference it made...
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Cramerton, NC - USA
Joined: 8/22/2006
Posts: 1094
Vette(s): black 1982 coupe slate gray interior, 350 crossfire, 1985 fuel pump, Steeroids R&P conversion
Jerry, if you ever find a source for those test pipes for our cars, please post the supplier. I can find them all over the net for the ricers, but not for any domestic cars.
[QUOTE=maintenance4]Year's ago, they use to sell a (test pipe) which replaced the converter. Wish I could get my hands on one now. Put one on my first 80 years ago, what a difference it made...[/QUOTE]
You will sometimes see these on e-bay.
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I talked to my local muffler shop and (1977 l48 stock) he told me that any car that originally had a cat cannot be modified by a shop due to a 2500.00 federal fine. He ajso told me that factory cats were 48% resrictive and the new cats are 95%.He told me the sound and performance with new cats would be like no cats at all.Any ideas?
in Forum: C3 Fuel, Emission Control, and Exhaust Systems
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