Date:         Wed, 30 Jul 2014 17:53:47 -0400
Reply-To:     Ken Wilford <kenwilfy@COMCAST.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Ken Wilford <kenwilfy@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      Re: Catalytic converter comparisons
Comments: To: Ed Duntz <eduntz@HOTMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <SNT153-DS13659646AC708968C2F896DBF90@phx.gbl>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

Emico is the nicest fit and finish for the Vanagon that isn't in
California.  They are made in Canada and used to work on everything
until California made their rules even stricter.  They have a stainless
steel body and flanges and should last for ten years or more as long as
your FI is in good shape and you don't overfill with oil.  We are
currently selling them for $175.  The other aftermarket ones out there
that I have seen, especially the cheaper ones, have flanges that aren't
welded on and just seem like they aren't as well made.  Just my opinion
but that is what you were asking for.  :-)

--
Thanks,
Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com
Phone: 856-327-4936
Fax: 856-327-2242


On 7/30/2014 12:13 PM, Ed Duntz wrote:
> There has been quite a bit of talk here lately about oxygen sensors; how about a comparison to a related item- catalytic converters?
>
> I'm buying the GoWesty stainless exhaust while it's on sale. Since I'm installing it on my 1.9, I need to get a 2.1 cat with the oxygen sensor hole. Since I'm in CT, I don't need a CA CARB compliant cat, so I can go with the 49-state cheaper cats.
>
> >From what I've found, most come with a 25,000 warranty on the performance, and a 5-year, 50,000 mile warranty on the body. I've seen a few exceptions, though- Advance only warranties their Magnafows for 90 days, though they say that the longer warranty applies through the manufacturer. Autozone warrants their Bosal for life.
>
> I've seen some size difference specs, though I'm assuming that a small difference won't affect installation. I've seen some listed as 11" in length, and some 12".
>
> Prices range from $89 shipped from RockAuto for an Eastern, to $137 (but $87 with coupon code). So I can get one for under $90.
>
> Has anyone noticed differences in fit or quality among the brands? Some are round and some are oval; some have heat shields and some do not.
>
> The major brands seem to be Magnaflow, Bosal, Walker, and Eastern.
>
> Feedback is appreciated.
>
> Thanks,
> Ed in CT
>