Catalytic converter aftermarket options

sothernmech · Post by **sothernmech** » 03 Apr 2012, 19:31

I need to replace my 1997 Volvo 850 Catalytic Converter but dealer price is so high for my budget!

Does any of you could have used an aftermarket option without problems?
Any recommendation?

Please let me know.

Thanks in advance for your help!

sothermech

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 04 Apr 2012, 08:16

Since you aren't in California you can use just about anything. I think several of our members have used Magnaflow catalytic converters and they work just fine. Don't just toss the old bad catalytic converter, its salvage value may exceed the price you pay for the replacement.

...Lee

Post by **tjts1** » 04 Apr 2012, 09:29

The problem with most cheap after market catalytic converters (even the California ones) is that you'll only pass smog with it once. A couple of years of normal day to day driving and the cheap cat is toast. I've seen this happen to several people that had to pass the biannual CA smog check. Most aren't built to the same high standards as the factory original because they don't need to have a 100k mile emissions warranty. Whatever cat you decide on make sure somebody else have been able to pass their second and third smog check with it.

Post by **JDS60R** » 04 Apr 2012, 09:42

Yes,
I see many cars also with replaced cat cons that fail after the first year. It is not uncommon (but it should be) for the tech who replaced the cat to not be allowed (or not know) to fix the underlying cause. (customer refuses sensor replacement or diagnostic as no code exists etc).

With proper replacement of oxygen sensors past their life cycle (with direct fit Bosch in most cases)and a thorough diagnostic of fuel trims and underlying causes (MAF,MAP,injector and ignition performance) after the new magnaflow cat is on we do not see failures. We are using the CA (CARB) approved Magnaflow units so the CA emissions are not an issue.

If you fix what damaged the Cat Conv, and replace it with a CARB approved 50 state Magnaflow cat, I would expect you to be very happy with its longevity and performance.

claymore850 · Post by **claymore850** » 04 Apr 2012, 15:22

I am using a Magnaflow 91006 on my 850 turbo since 2006, without any kind of problem. You can buy a new one at ebay for US 68.00 and be calm NO problem with smog inspections

echase76 · Post by **echase76** » 05 Apr 2012, 19:56

Just put the 3" version of the magnaflow 91000 series since I have an aftermarket exhaust. Works great and no CEL code from the rear O2. Had it welded in for an hour of shop time.