Date:         Fri, 29 Jun 2001 14:24:04 -0700
Reply-To:     Gerald Masar <azsun99@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Gerald Masar <azsun99@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject:      Catalytic converter
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

LEGAL, MORAL AND ETHICAL ISSUES ASIDE,     what are the pros and cons of
gutting the cat. converter?
There was something on the list about this awhile back, but I can't find the
info in the archives. For awhile now, especially in the summer heat, the
whole area around the back of the engine compartment, the bumper, cowling,
lic. plate, etc. have been too hot to touch, even after a short drive. The
van itself, a '90 Westy, is running normally. Good gas mileage (for a van
with 134k miles) and the temp. gauge is just over the top edge of the LED.
The O2 sensor was changed just a few months ago for a new Bosch OEM unit. To
my knowledge, it has never been in a "running rich" situation.
I understand the cat. can get clogged. I am taking it off this weekend to
check it out.
Comments?
Thanks,
Jerry