Catalytic converter...HELP PLZ...

[mjmtupac21]

My '95 Z28 had a clogged catalytic converter. I want to remove the cat. and replace it with a straight pipe. Will it run smoothly without the cat. converter?

[izzydjinn]

Hi, ok smooth as in smooth ride or smooth as it doesn't shake or rattle.... from what I know, taking the cat out might confuse the comp. Then again I'm not that familar with the 94-97's as far the o2 setup is. But asuming is the same as mine (00) . By confusing I mean it might run a bit rich thus making it not as "smooth".

[mjmtupac21]

Thanks. By smooth, I meant that it would run without dying or backfiring and consistent idle. I don't see any Oxygen sensor on or after the cat. So I don't see how it would be a problem if it were removed. Then again, I'm not a mechanic.

[izzydjinn]

What I would do is, since you say the cat is clogged anyways. Take it off and run it like that for a while and see if it make a difference that you notice, and if you think it improved then go with it. I do know that by removing the cats you also free up some power. I would do it on my but in Texas you need emissions. I've heard of o2 bypass but no one here has been able to confirm that.

[abaird]

It is illegal to remove the cat. Having said that though, it can be done without sacrificing the way the car runs. On a 95 there is no O2 sensor after the cat to monitor it. If you do it, don't get caught.

[Zahmin89]

If you live in a DEQ'd area, you'll definitely want to replace it rather than removing it because you'll never pass your emissions test w/o it.