is a catalytic converter replacement a DIY? is there any procedure available in this site?

thx

 

The problematic step is dealing with heat cycles nuts and bolts. Depending on which cat, you may have to deal with the sensor.

usually it is lot quicker to just saw off (or chisel out) as they might not be in a condition to be reused.

So if you can tackle them it is a DIY. Price the job at an exhaust shop .. they have the lift and all needed tools.

Salim

 

thx salim. I have a lift in my garage so that is not an issue. I agree, I will need to replace the oxygen sensors as well. I guess you are right about the nuts and bolts -they may not come off easily and may need to saw-off.

 

What code are you getting? Or, what symptoms are leading you to say the cat. needs replacing.

 

Symptom is exhaust leak and is noisy.

 

Could be the gaskets between the pipes, maybe you dont need a cat...

 

good point. i will check. if i need to replace cat converter it is the bank 2 that is the problem. do you have anything you can share as far as the procedure on how to replace it?

 

I read that the bolts are a spring loaded creating a pressure release valve type affect. I am hearing a sound coming from under the hood like a plastic bag flapping in the wind! Sounds like a release sound! Anyway, asked a muffler shop symptoms of Cat failure and transmission type symptoms was stated, which I am having. I would like to replace this myself due to price...laid off recently....but don't know what I would need to do so. Are special tools and parts needed?

 

You should first consider the possibility that one or both of your exhaust manifolds are cracked. Common problem.

 

Any data to back this up?

 

While I agree that 'the plural of anecdote is not data' the fact that both of mine cracked, and the dealer told me it was common, is all I have to go on.

 

I had tackled this job very recently on my 01 AWD. It is quite difficult to replace just the cat. The 2 bolt flange that goes to the flex pipe was hard enough with all the rust but the other end with the piping is even more difficult. The piping from the cat is slightly smaller in diameter compared to the piping on the muffler. The cat slides into the muffler and gets clamped on. When new, the assembly and removal of these parts would be a piece of cake. However, my piping was rusted solid onto the muffler so I ended up cutting the piping off the new cat and welding it to the muffler. Good luck!

 

what's the cost for something like this (labor and parts separate)? for a decent aftermarket as oem would be too expensive.