Replace catalytic converter?

Daniel J. Stern wrote:
>
> On Wed, 2 Mar 2005, JazzMan wrote:
>
> > > > My '88 Pontiac had a bead-bed catalyst originally.
>
> > > That is highly doubtful. Are you *quite* sure? How do you know?
>
> > Because I cut the original, plugged up catalyst off three years back and
> > replaced it with a monolith.
>
> Interesting. What model (and engine, etc.) is your '88 Pontiac?

Fiero, 2.8.

JazzMan
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Mike Walsh > wrote in message
...
>
> If there is a rattling noise from a honeycomb catalytic converter there is
a good chance that it will crumble and clog up. If a tray with pellets type
converter rattles it is usually just a loose tray and it will work OK.
>
In my van the catalytic converter is actually two honeycomb pieces. Only the
rear piece was damaged. The mechanic was able to remove the pieces causing
the clog and subsequent noise without hindering too much (I hope) the
emission control. At any rate, there is no visible smoking or leaking from
the tailpipe.

Oh, and the charge for this service, free! If you're in the El Paso area and
need a mechanic recommendation I've got a good one for you.
--
Matthew
To reply by e-mail, heat things up a bit.

On Fri, 4 Mar 2005, Matthew wrote:

> In my van the catalytic converter is actually two honeycomb pieces. Only
> the rear piece was damaged. The mechanic was able to remove the pieces
> causing the clog and subsequent noise without hindering too much (I
> hope) the emission control.

Bzzt!

The front biscuit reduces NOx into Oxygen and Nitrogen. The rear biscuit
oxidizes hydrocarbons and Carbon Monoxide into water and Carbon Dioxide.
By removing the rear biscuit, your "mechanic" not only practically
guaranteed you'll flunk your next emission test, but he also violated
Federal law.

> Oh, and the charge for this service, free! If you're in the El Paso area
> and need a mechanic recommendation I've got a good one for you.

Sure doesn't sound like it.