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The Exhaust Warehouse is one of the largest wholesale distributors of universal catalytic converters. Our knowledge and expertise has allowed us to build a comprehensive aftermarket catalytic converters catalog. One of our keys to success has been utilizing many OE components and processes in our aftermarket database for domestic as well as import applications.
Along with the massive loading of precious metals to overcompensate for the high demands of high mileage vehicles, allows us to provide a superior catalytic converter versus the normal aftermarket product. This is why our converters have the reputation of solving the problem the first time.
Brands we offer with Spun Catalytic Converters:
MagnaFlow universal spun catalytic converters utilize the revolutionary new catalyst technology. Using new manufacturing technology, they fabricate each converter body from a single CNC-formed and laser-welded tubular section, which is then spun into a round converter body shape. The MagnaFlow universal spun catalytic converters are literally manufactured around the catalyst, which is securely tucked inside and necks down to thicker-gauge material at the inlet/oulet for maximum durability. They are available in different-diameter inlets and outlets to match your specific exhaust system. Whether you need centered, offset, or angled converters, MagnaFlow universal spun catalytic converters will fit any application.
Catco universal-fit catalytic converters offer great features, including 409 stainless steel shells, 16-gauge stainless steel pipes and nipples, and a heat-resistant sealed mat—all of which help the converters last longer. These converters are designed so that you can add one to any vehicle that wasn't originally equipped with one. Many models have steel air tubes with numerous perforations to help distribute the airflow evenly without robbing power, and most have slip-fit connections for an easy installation. Choose the inlet/outlet diameters needed for your application.
Precious Metal Loading - Bosal uses on average 60% more precious metals than aftermarket competitors
Spun Technology - Old style clamshell converters present opportunity for small leaks to negatively affect fuel trim. OE technology requires a spun design with no opportunity for leaks.
Washcoat Technology - Bosal uses OE washcoat technology, which results in thicker, more even coatings. This allows precious metals to be dispersed more evenly across the catalyst
OE Specified Matting - Bosal uses OE matting measured for the specific converter shell, which provides superior stability and prevents emissions from seeping around the catalyst and not being "converted"
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California car? California vehicle? California emissions vehicle? California certified emissions vehicle? California Air Resources Board (CARB) vehicle? No matter how you say it, this phrase means different things to different people. For those of you in the repair field or looking to get the correct converter for your vehicle, it has come to define our world.
Making the distinction between the two is hardly new. The line was drawn back in the late 60’s, but its significance has grown over the last few years. On January 1, 2009, California (CA) adopted and put into place, new laws regarding the manufacture, sale and installation of aftermarket catalytic converters. Since then, New York (NY) and Maine (ME) have adopted those same laws.
This article is not about the laws themselves, but rather one area of the law that seems to be the most confusing to those who may not fully understand the difference. That is the process of selecting the proper converter for an individual vehicle. Although the letter of the law in NY and ME is not exactly as it is in CA, the principle is the same. If an OBD II vehicle is built to meet CARB standards, then it requires a CA certified converter. For example, one significant difference is that NY will allow EPA (Federal) certified vehicles to use a non-CARB part whereas CA does not make that distinction.
The most important takeaway is to recognize that a vehicle meeting the stricter CA standards from the factory has a catalytic converter, as well as other emission components on it, that is designed to meet those tougher standards. Therefore it is important to maintain the integrity of the system. In order to do that, you have to know what emission standard the vehicle is designed to meet and what components make up that system.
So how does a technician, retail counter person or vehicle owner retrieve this information? It can be found on the Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) label located in the engine compartment. Typically it will be located on the strut tower, radiator support, or on the underside of the hood. This label contains information about the emissions systems and components of that specific vehicle along with a statement referring to the standards to which that vehicle conforms. Refer to this information to help choose the proper catalytic converter for the vehicle.
The regulatory statement will indicate whether the vehicle conforms to EPA (Federal) or CA (CARB) standards or both EPA and CARB (aka 50 State). As a side note, any label that has the phrase LEV (Low Emission Vehicle) in it conforms to CA standards. Some examples are LEV, ULEV, SULEV, NLEV or TLEV to name a few. Any vehicle that meets CARB standards automatically meets EPA. The reverse however is not true.
There are some differences between CA regulations and the NY/ME version of these rules. CA for instance does not distinguish between federal and CARB standard vehicles. If the vehicle is registered in CA, it requires a CARB certified converter. These converters are labeled with an Executive Order (EO) number that verifies it has been approved for sale and/or installation in CA. NY or ME however has indicated that they will allow non-CARB certified converters to be installed on vehicles that only meet the federal or EPA standard.
There are some differences between CA regulations and the NY/ME version of these rules. CA for instance does not distinguish between federal and CARB standard vehicles. If the vehicle is registered in CA, it requires a CARB certified converter. These converters are labeled with an Executive Order (EO) number that verifies it has been approved for sale and/or installation in CA. NY or ME however has indicated that they will allow non-CARB certified converters to be installed on vehicles that only meet the federal or EPA standard.
To learn more about government regulations around emission standards in California, Maine, New York or all other states (Federal), please see the following external sources:
California emission standards
Maine emission standards
New York emission standards
Federal emission standards
For an in-depth review of how to confirm which catalytic converter you need if you live in California, Maine or New York, please review the following information.
]]>A catalytic converter is the device used to lessen the amount of CO, NOx and HC present in tailpipe emissions. It is monitored by the onboard computer for engine efficiency and pollution control.
The modern catalytic converter performs two functions. It oxidizes (burns) the CO and unburned HC present in the exhaust stream and it reduces the amount of NOx released into the air. These fail when the engine is not tuned up, as this leads to overworking the converter, overheating and possible clogging.
Poor engine performance is the #1 reason converters fail. The catalyst is exposed to raw fuel and high exhaust temperatures. This shortens the life of the converter. The Exhaust Warehouse’s catalytic converters are a direct fit design, no modification required. We use a wash coat technology for even and precise catalyst loading. Catalyst loading engineered for specific year, make, model gross vehicle weight and engine family.
The flanges, mounting points and catalyst are constructed from 409 stainless steel. Interlocking flex pipes and mounting gaskets are included for a professional installation.
The PO420 diagnostic code (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1) is commonly the first sign that it is time to replace your catalytic converter. This can be generated by a variety of engine problems not directly related to the converter.
The following engine related problems are known to generate the PO420 code:
Most, if not all, catalytic converter failures are caused by a problem or malfunction somewhere in the emission system ahead of the converter. So, it’s very important to determine what actually caused the converter to fail, so that the problem can be repaired and a recurrence can be prevented.
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This apocalyptic Mad Max style death mobile Aptly named the DeathKart is the brainchild of drift enthusiast Mike Perez and Speed Warehouse. They impressively have turned a ’91 Nissan 240SX into a rad machine of mayhem .
They upgraded the original donor vehicle to a turbocharged 2.5L 1J with a Precision 6262 turbo, new aggressive cams, a heftier fuel injector and fuel pump, and an AEM Infinity.
]]>Big, off-road trucks are already in many ways toys for adults. The Toyota Hilux Tonka Concept takes this idea literally. Inspired by the Tonka trucks of our youth, it's decked out in a branded black-and-yellow livery, with a 2.8-litre four cylinder turbo-diesel engine under the hood.
An increased ride height offers extra ground clearance, and the heavy-duty suspension handles harsh terrain with aplomb. It also has off-road LED lighting, a tubular frame in the bed to hold gear like fuel cans, a fire extinguisher, an ax, and a shovel, and 35-inch tires.
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With swooping lines, teardrop fenders, and a distinctive rounded angled door, the 1937 Talbot-Lago T150-C SS Coupe is a masterclass in Art Deco-era automotive design. This particular example spent the majority of its time in Switzerland and underwent a full Concours-level restoration in 2002. As a result, the Figoni et Falaschi-produced bodywork is in fantastic condition, with a two-tone paint scheme that only serves to highlight its spectacular shape further.
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Condition: Many installers struggle with PO420 & PO430 codes when replacing Catalytic Converters. Sending parts back to you needlessly or asking you to deliver a replacement part needlessly hurts profitability and costs you money.
Solution: Training and proper Diagnosis. The Exhaust Warehouse offers Technical Training both at the Sales & Counter level and the Professional Installer level. Installers who address the reason that the Original Equipment Converter failed greatly reduce or eliminate warranty replacements.
Results: Installers who do these three things BEFORE replacing a Catalytic Converter GREATLY reduce or eliminate warranty returns. Distributors who take advantage of Technical Training increase sales and increase profitability.
Under the motto “Beast of the Green Hell”, the new AMG GT R trembles the “Green Hell” of the Nürburgring and nobody less than reigning F1 world champion Lewis Hamilton is up to the task of taming the beast.
Painted in aggressively provocative “AMG green hell magno”, the new Mercedes-AMG GT R demonstrates that it is more than a sports car.
It’s a racing car that has been approved for use on the road. The Mercedes-AMG campaign was created in cooperation with one of the world’s most iconic race circuits, the Nürburgring Nordschleife, also known as “Green Hell”.
Mercedes-AMG continues to grow and is expanding the top end of its product range with the introduction of the new Mercedes-AMG GT R. The Mercedes-AMG GT R is a roadgoing sports car with motor racing genes. With its innovative technical solutions it offers an impressive driving experience.
It combines the driving dynamics of the AMG GT3 racing car with the everyday practicality of the AMG GT. The newcomer once again confirms that the designers of racing and roadgoing cars work together very closely.
In workshops covering driving dynamics, weight optimisation, aerodynamics and design, the experts from Mercedes-AMG explained technical highlights such as the active rear axle steering, the intelligent lightweight construction, the active aerodynamic section in the underbody and the expressive design with motorsport features such as the new AMG Panamericana grille.
“We have defined every single component dedicated to performance. The result is an overall composition which perfectly reflects our motto: “Handcrafted by racers”. That makes this sports car a milestone when it comes to driving dynamics.” Tobias Moers, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, said about the latest member of the GT family.
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12 Steps to Installing a new exhaust system
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A catalytic converter is a device used to reduce the emissions from an internal combustion engine (used in most modern day automobiles and vehicles). Not enough oxygen is available to oxidize the carbon fuel in these engines completely into carbon dioxide and water; thus toxic by-products are produced. Catalytic converters are used in exhaust systems to provide a site for the oxidationand reduction of toxic by-products (like nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons) of fuel into less hazardous substances such as carbon dioxide, water vapor, and nitrogen gas.
What does a Catalytic Converter do?
A catalytic converter is a device that uses a catalyst to convert three harmful compounds in car exhaust into harmless compounds.
The three harmful compounds are:
-Hydrocarbons (in the form of unburned gasoline)
-Carbon monoxide (formed by the combustion of gasoline)
-Nitrogen oxides (created when the heat in the engine forces nitrogen in the air to combine with oxygen)
Carbon monoxide is a poison for any air-breathing animal. Nitrogen oxides lead to smog and acid rain, and hydrocarbonsproduce smog.
In a catalytic converter, the catalyst (in the form of platinum and palladium) is coated onto a ceramic honeycomb or ceramic beads that are housed in a muffler-like package attached to the exhaust pipe. The catalyst helps to convert carbon monoxide into carbon dioxide. It converts the hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water. It also converts the nitrogen oxides back into nitrogen and oxygen.
Why do Catalytic Converters Fail?
Any malfunction causing an unusually high level of HC or CO (in conjunction with high levels of O2) to enter the converter, will dramatically elevate its temperature.
Potential causes for high HC readings may include:Misfires
AFR Cylinder imbalance
Excessive engine or vehicle load
- Fuel delivery system or fuel quality
- Sluggish (worn out) O2 sensors
- Excessive backpressure
- Low compression
Poor spark, or weak ignition
NOTE: Temperatures in excess of 1600º F may damage catalyst, without visible signs of melting.
Catalyst poisoning occurs when the converter is exposed to emissions containing substances that coat the working surfaces, enveloping the catalyst to the point it cannot contact - and treat - the exhaust.
Potential causes for coated or fouled substrate may include:Excessive carbon build-up in exhaust
Internal coolant leaks (head / intake gasket)
Use of non-converter-safe gasket sealants
Excessive oil consumption (burning oil)
Improper fuels or additives (E85, diesel)
The primary cause of structural damage is road debris striking the converter. Normally, some evidence of impact is visible on the converter shield.
Other conditions that may cause structural damage:Corrosion
Thermal shock
Metal fatigue
Stress fractures
Stripped O2 Sensor threads
Flex pipe failure
Air-gap pipe failure
Symptoms of Catalytic Converter Failure
If you suspect you have a failing catalytic converter it is advisable to take the car to your mechanic and have them diagnose the problem. A catalytic converter is a vital part of the vehicle exhaust system. It works to convert harmful gasses in exhaust systems and change them into safe compounds that can be emitted into the atmosphere and cause less damage to the environment. The catalytic converter is placed between the engine and the exhaust muffler on the underside of the car. It is not common for a catalytic converter to fail. They are usually more subject to external damage like impact from debris or internal engine damage cause by overheating.
Misfiring in the engine system can cause the catalyst to over heat. Alternatively, an exceptionally rich fuel mixture will exhibit similar symptoms. When there is a presence of an extra rich fuel mixture raw fuel enters the catalytic converter and is ignited. This can cause the catalyst components to melt under such conditions.
Exhaust becomes trapped in front of the catalyst and there is a latent reduction in performance. This is created by back pressure which affects the running of your engine and stops it breathing. The sudden increase in back pressure can cause your engine to stall during your drive. It will act as though there is an air lock in your system. It will cause the car jerk or feel like there is no fuel reaching the engine when you push the accelerator.
You will most certainly become aware of deterioration in the economy of your fuel. Your car will utilize a noticeable amount more gas than usual and this will cost you significantly if the only fault is caused by a failing converter.
Assessing the cause of a failing catalytic converter can sometimes be traced back to an error in the fuel system. A distinctive sign of this is a restriction in the performance of the exhaust system. It is indicative of the melting of catalyst materials inside.
If your vehicle is equipped with a carburetor and you know how to test the catalytic converter, then test it. Remove the air cleaner and enlist the help of a friend. The will need to hold a strong light near the carburetor intake. Glance over the top of the carburetor toward where the light is shining and rev the engine. If you notice signs of fuel vapor suspended over the carburetor, you will be able to safely deduce that there is a clog in the catalytic converter.
Another way to identify whether a catalytic converter is failing is to temporarily take out the oxygen sensors from the exhaust. If there is an obvious alteration in the performance of the vehicle then you can be sure the converter has clog and is failing.
Contamination of the chemical mechanisms inside the catalytic converter, caused by the addition of substances such as motor oil or antifreeze can prevent the converter from performing correctly. You will notice a raised level of carbon emissions from the converter if this happens and you will need to replace the converter before it does damage to your entire exhaust system or emits an illegal amount of emissions into the atmosphere.
What is OBD-II?
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) refers to the vehicles self diagnostic system. The system was developed to help motorist and service technicians diagnose and service vehicles computerized engine management systems, as well as to inform the motorist when a potential problem exists regarding the emissions control systems of the vehicle. Αt the beginning with the 1996 model year, a new system was develope. The new system known as OBDII requires all light duty cars and trucks to monitor specific systems using generic criteria for evaluation and reporting of system status, and for indicating problems to the motorist and/or technician.
The Engine Control Module (ECM) or Powertrain Control Module (PCM) continuously monitors the engine for conditions that can cause an increase on tailpipe emissions. If the ECM or PCM detects a potential problem with the engine, a warning light called a "malfunction indicator light" (MIL) on the dashboard is illuminated to alert the driver of a problem. This light is usually identified by the words "Check Engine," "Service Engine Soon," or the word "Check" along with an engine symbol. The ECM or PCM will also stored a Diagnostic Trouble Code" (DTC) in the computer's memory. This DTC can be retrieved with a code reader device to help diagnose problems with the vehicle.