88 caprice catalytic converter?

[88caprice]

The mechanics are saying I need a new cat..

My state has no emissions regulations or testing, ive removed the cats of some of my old cars while doing exhaust upgrades.

My question is
Does the b-body Caprice require the cat?

I was told there is a hose and pipe running to the engine, prolly for emissions 'cycling'. If removing the cat will my o2 sensor not work correctly? Is there any downside to this [besides emissions legalitys, gas consumtion and noise], if its going to make the car 'not work' or drive worse Ill opt to spend the few hundred on a cat + install instead of $20 to get it chopped off.

Thanks.

[TommySS]

Virtually all cars since 1976 use a cat (unless you're driving an export car). Running w/o one on the highway (and getting caught) can be real expensive, which is why muffler shops won't chop it off for you (unless you are taking the car overseas).

[88caprice]

But will running w/o one cause the car to not proplery function?

[TommySS]

It'll run ok.

[3859C1]

I got rid of my catalyic convertor and the rest of the crappy exhaust on my '88 9C1 Caprice. It runs better than ever!