Date:         Mon, 25 Apr 2005 14:23:37 -0400
Reply-To:     The Bus Depot <vanagon@BUSDEPOT.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         The Bus Depot <vanagon@BUSDEPOT.COM>
Subject:      Re: O2 Sensor in Catalytic Converter - Correct model for each FI
              system ?
In-Reply-To:  <426D3005.5030800@verizon.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

> Bus Depot and VolksCafe sell only one catalytic converter and 
> their search engines return that part when you search either 
> for a Digijet or Digifant model Vanagon.  It has the O2 
> sensor hole in it.  Bus Depot's e-store shows you that the 
> same Cat is specified for over a dozen different VW models, 
> both California approved and "regular" systems.
> 
> On the other hand, VanAgain, VW Parts Central, GoWesty, and 
> BowWow all sell two types of catalytic converter, one for the 
> Digijet and one for the Digifant.  
> 
> Prices vary considerably, ranging from $99.95 to $199.95.  
> Odds are that most regular readers of the list can make a 
> good guess who has the lowest and highest prices.


The two CAT's are identical other than an 02 sensor hole. Therefore, many
companies make just one version, and simply include a plug to fill the hole
if you have a 1.9L Vanagon. This results in economies of scale, hence a much
lower price (ours is actually $95 with your list discount), with no
downside. The plug is no more likely to pop out while driving than your
oxygen sensor is, as both are the exact same thread.  Like exhaust bolts,
due to the heat they tend to seize in place if anything, not work themselves
loose. (Anyone who's tried to remove an old 02 sensor from a CAT, or old
exhaust bolts, can attest to that!)  The important part is to make sure to
tighten it well upon installation. The manufacturers generally ship them
only hand-tightened, since many people will be removing them to install an
02 sensor.

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  www.busdepot.com
  (215)  234-VWVW

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