catalytic converter problem

I have a problem with the catylic converter on my 97 xlt. When it gets warm i hear like a ticking noise coming from the converter, but since it has two, i dont know which one i have to replace. I have to buy it at the dealership for over 600 bucks. Has anyone ever had this problem? I was told to run a system diagnostics on it to check which one i need but no one around here knows where i can take it.

I have a problem with the catylic converter on my 97 xlt. When it gets warm i hear like a ticking noise coming from the converter, but since it has two, i dont know which one i have to replace. I have to buy it at the dealership for over 600 bucks. Has anyone ever had this problem? I was told to run a system diagnostics on it to check which one i need but no one around here knows where i can take it.

You don't replace converters for a ticking noise. You only replace it if the check engine light comes on, and tests show that the converter is not doing its job. The oxygen sensors keep track of how the converter is doing. Its only bad if your emissions (CO,NOX,HC's) are too high.

My converter on my 99 used to tick, but it has mostly quit. Save your money!

Someone please straighten me out on this: I know converters are expensive but why would you have to get it through the dealer. I'm sure you can get it at a 1/3 of the cost somewhere else.??????

bang on them with a rubber hammer, see if one rattles inside.

and, yeah, why do you have to buy it at the dealer?