PSA: Magnaflow "direct fit" catalytic converter for turbo P80 models not even close

Post by **slickdizzy** » 13 Sep 2020, 14:12

Due to the OE cat pipe breaking near the oxygen sensor, I ordered a "direct fit" Magnaflow replacement catalytic converter, part number 23761, for my 1998 V70. I've had good experiences with Magnaflow parts in the past and figured this would be a straightforward replacement. Unfortunately, it appears that whoever drew up this part never even tried to fit it to a car.

The flange pattern is correct, but the ID is almost 5/8" smaller, so there's no way it can fit over the stepped portion of the turbo exhaust housing without leaking like crazy! Not only that, but it's signficantly smaller than the turbo outlet, so would create a major restriction in exhaust flow.

I have an e-mail into Magnaflow about this but I'm not anticipating a response that will make me whole before the emissions test I have due this week.

If you need a catalytic converter for your turbo P80, tread with caution if Magnaflow is one of your options.

OE on top, Magnaflow on bottom:

OE:

Magnaflow:

The reason it just plain won't work:

Post by **jimmy57** » 13 Sep 2020, 17:52

I have no idea what is going in in the parts biz. I have had more parts issues in the last year than in the previous 40 years. Issues with OEM parts and legacy brand name parts. The contractors they use now are messing up and they are not monitoring it. I had fit problems with an $800 CARB approved cat for a P3 and when it didn't fit I had to go with a cheapy one as the owner was not able to pay $1800 for Volvo OEM part. The cheap one fit perfect.

Post by **slickdizzy** » 13 Sep 2020, 20:51

jimmy57 wrote: ↑13 Sep 2020, 17:52 I have no idea what is going in in the parts biz. I have had more parts issues in the last year than in the previous 40 years. Issues with OEM parts and legacy brand name parts. The contractors they use now are messing up and they are not monitoring it. I had fit problems with an $800 CARB approved cat for a P3 and when it didn't fit I had to go with a cheapy one as the owner was not able to pay $1800 for Volvo OEM part. The cheap one fit perfect.

I’m sure COVID has something to do with it, but even then, I’ve experienced the same. Incorrect shipments, poorly made parts, the whole gamut. Thankfully I’m working from home at the moment so this is just an inconvenience in the grand scheme of things, but I still have to deal with the smog man sooner than later...

We will see what Magnaflow says. I’m hoping they stand behind the product and make it right, but if they don’t, I may be spending some quality time with a Dremel and grinding bit.

Post by **jimmy57** » 13 Sep 2020, 22:25

I had COVID issues like backorders and long delayed shipments but the quality issues for me predated Covid by several months. There is a separate issue for catalysts that I have not been able to figure out. If you look up catalytic converters in different places there are lots of then no longer offered. I don't know if CARB and EPA regs changed or toughened recently or if the catalyst material makers have shortages.

Post by **abscate** » 14 Sep 2020, 01:35

Palladium is up 5x since 2018, my guess is with half the supply in Russia, it’s an interesting supply chain story right now

callahanoffroad · Post by **callahanoffroad** » 14 Sep 2020, 08:46

Even if it fit holy spool time batman.

Post by **slickdizzy** » 14 Sep 2020, 19:03

Just a few more images for posterity's sake.