Gutting Cats (that aren't bolt-on)

[Donald91tbird]

I have a question about my car; 1991 Ford T-bitd 3.8 V6. 151,000 miles.

The Catalytic Converter's (2 of them) on my car seemed really clogged. But the problem is that they aren't bolt-on and ARE welded to the exhaust. I don't wan't to completely gut the shit out of them. I was just thinking about sawing them off one by one, jaming a pipe threw the middle, vacuuming up lose pieces and using a muffler clamp to clamp them back on. Now just opinions I'm looking for. I am not trying to gain any horsepower off of this , just simply too unclog them. If anything redeem HP that is because of my CATS. . My method is the only way since they are welded. But I just want to know everyone's opinion on this and hopefully some good advice. I dont want to pay 200$ for new cats. at a muffler shop, that is such a waste for what your getting.


Please state your opinion or give me the pros and cons of this
thanks!

[MN12racer]

I had a similar problem, and I will give you a TEMPORARY fix that worked for me and sounded....kind of cool. Disconnect the Catalytic converters and resonator assembly, grab a hammer and beat away at the top and sides until internals loosen, and shake out as neccesary, as the pieces become dislodged it will get harder and harder to break them up but a little persistance will get the job done. Be carful not to beat them flat or to crack the welds. Good luck.

[fmfgnarly]

When mine clogged, it kept the car from running (to much back pressure) so I just rammed a metal rod threw it

[Donald91tbird]

Yeah I guess I will have to do it that way, sounds like a whole day project to me.. thanks

[jtiderencel]

any of you guys from CA. all your fixes will last one to two years or when you'll have to smog it again.

[gvc132]

I dont know where you guys are from, but if your in canada and are caught without cats on your car its a major fine... id look into your local laws and regualtions on that before you start choppin of your cats.

[Donald91tbird]

yeah it is a fine, in California too.... Im in FL here and for some weird reason we don't have emissions!! Thats why you see everyone driving by with their catback exhausts polluting left and right.