exhaust pressure?

[tg1hq]

OK, so I'm not getting any power out of my 89 Formula after a serious wreck. I replaced the MAF, but nothing changed. The exhaust looks intact, but I was told by a mechanic that the insides of the CATs might have collapsed, turned to crud, whatever. He told me that I should get the back pressure checked at a muffler place.
I've never heard of doing this before, and was wondering if it's something I could check myself, or do I need a special machine? Also, what does this little test cost? $20 or so????

[97cavalier]

just start it up and feel the exhaust comming out of the pipe, don't touch the pie tho...duh.... but if you really can't tell then just call a local shop and see what they say, i here this can be a map sencer somthimes, i don't know if it has anything to do with yours tho.

[tri-power]

A pressure test should cost little to nothing to have done. I had it checked on an S-15 before and they didn't charge me a dime. They drill a small hold in the exhaust and insert a probe. When they are done, they'll braze the hold closed.

[tg1hq]

I took it to a muffler shop and apparently, it's one of the cats. They are going to charge me $300 total for 2 new hi-flow cats, and to install the cat-back system I already have at home.

[79Bandit]

D.i.y

[tg1hq]

I would do it myself if I had the tools, or a place to do it, but I'm living in an apartment complex, and their not to keen on making the parking lot look like Fred Sanford's yard.
Plus, I have a feeling that if I did it myself, I would end up having the Charlie Brown Christmas tree version of an exhaust system.

[silver87ta]

2 hi flo cats usually run @ $160...install of a cat back is usually @ $80 (at least around here)...so $300 doesnt sound so horrible.

Maybe they'll knock some off if you at least buy your own cats.