P0430 Catalytic Converter

[chedeng]

Originally Posted by trentcdrums

Thanks for the steps.

Couple questions. Did you have to remove the arm off the engine the attaches to the engine mount? - No

Did you have enough clearance for your manifolds to drop? I couldn't tell based on the comments. - Without the studs, the manifolds just drop from the bottom. Remove the front manifold first.

Did the majority of your studs unscrew off the head verses staying in like the should? I see you ordered new ones regardless. - The 13 out of 16 came out so I removed the rest. It is easier to remove without them.

How long did this take you? - 8 hrs spread across two weekends.

I am looking to get these for my 3.0 2002. Thoughts?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/BMW-X5-3-0L-Both-Manifold-Catalytic-Converter-2001-2002-2003-2004-2005-2006/253086527915 -

I too looked at the cheaper options vs OEM but could not justify the cost. I settled for the middle-tier variety, which in this case, Cat converter made by Eastern Catalytics. So far, 8,000 miles no issue so far.

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[trentcdrums]

Originally Posted by chedeng

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Thanks a bunch. Are you saying it's impossible to remove them with the studs in? I would prefer that method.

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[Riggodeaux]

Originally Posted by chedeng

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Like you, Chedeng, I'm getting those dreaded Cat codes. Passed inspection last year, but I'm concerned I won't make it next November. I'm hoping my southern X5, avoiding most road salt, will be an easier task than you faced. Given the age of our vehicles, I expect most all of us will be doing this soon. Mine turns 13 tomorrow, and has 215k on the odometer. I'll look through your posts on this thread before I drive off that bridge .....