Troubleshooting Gutless Dodge 2500

[Soundguy]

glad to hear you found something that seems deffinate.

good luck on the repair.

soundguy

 

[SandburRanch]

If you're considering replacing the converter yourself, check on line prices and don't hesitate to re-cycle your old converter for the possible platinum contained within.

SCRAP CATALYTIC CONVERTER FOR RECYCLING | eBay

 

[Dmace]

Sounds like your on your way back to MOPOWER! :thumbsup:

Also, look for a "Universal Catalytic Converter" as you can usually get one that bolts right up for much less. For example, a local parts store around here has one for $281 USD. http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_Catalytic-Converter---Standard-Direct-Fit-Walker_18390112-P_145_R|GRPEXHAAMS_1396907007____

 

[TractorRob]

Sounds like your on your way back to MOPOWER! :thumbsup:

Also, look for a "Universal Catalytic Converter" as you can usually get one that bolts right up for much less. For example, a local parts store around here has one for $281 USD. http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_Catalytic-Converter---Standard-Direct-Fit-Walker_18390112-P_145_R|GRPEXHAAMS_1396907007____

If by "Universal Catalytic Converter" you are referring to a "Universal Fit" one, then that is not what he needs. He needs a "Direct Fit" one(which the one in your link is). The Direct Fit ones tend to cost more than the Universal Fit ones, but are worth it because they are a direct bolt-in replacement whereas the Universal Fit ones require custom exhaust tubing.

 

[Diamondpilot]

I have worked on cars, boats, trucks, backhoes, bull dozers, tractors, ect for nearly 30 years now. 2 things I have learned.

You are money, time, and frustration ahead to pay to have 2 things done. Them 2 things are exhaust work and suspension work. Usually that stuff is so rusted its a pain and there is always something else you need not on site.

If it were me I would have a shop replace it. This is coming from a shade tree mechanic that works on stuff weekly.

Chris

 

[TractorRob]

...
You are money, time, and frustration ahead to pay to have 2 things done. Them 2 things are exhaust work and suspension work. Usually that stuff is so rusted its a pain and there is always something else you need not on site.
...

You may have a point here. Mine was not that difficult, and was easily worth doing it myself as opposed to taking it somewhere; however, there is something I had not considered until just now. The original poster is in Canada, with much different weather than I get in Middle Tennessee(seeing your avatar with the snow plow and snow on the ground is what made me think of it), likely resulting in a rustier exhaust system.

I would try separating the muffler from the cat first, then if successful there try separating the cat from the exhaust manifolds. If any of these connections are too rusted to be able to get apart without cutting, then I would take it somewhere

 

[Knight9]

Those are very good points. I think what I'll likely do is put some penetrating lubricant on the various attachment points and give it a try myself first.

I did look at the various online suppliers for the parts. Not a lot cheaper than the local supplier and this way I can see it and make sure it is the correct fit etc and return it easily if I have problems with it.

This is the type of direct fit one I'm looking to get, although not this exact one:
Magnaflow Direct Fit

They also have a Universal fit but as you can see the universals literally just replace the catalytic converter "box" and I'd have to get it welded into place. Unless there is some kind of sleeve or something you could clamp over the two ends to join them?

Regardless, I will make the order and see what I can do. ​

 

[orezok]

Rockauto.com

Direct fit with Y pipe $192

 

[B7510HSD]

I would be spraying down all the bolts and or nuts now with a penatrating spray of some kind before you start this job it may help them come loose easier! :thumbsup:

 

[MikePA]

You are money, time, and frustration ahead to pay to have 2 things done. Them 2 things are exhaust work and suspension work. Usually that stuff is so rusted its a pain and there is always something else you need not on site. If it were me I would have a shop replace it.

Amen. I replaced the outlet pipes on a vehicle a lot newer than the OPs. 4 bolts, how hard can it be? I sprayed the bolts the night before and used an impact gun. Added heat. The bolts would not budge. The local muffler shop had to use a cutting torch to get the 2 joints apart. They also had the gaskets needed. Charged $60. Worth every penny.