Catalytic converters stolen!
 

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Build a framework out of 2x4 or 2x6 to hold the flange in exact position before cutting out the old cat. It will keep it exactly where it needs to be when positioning the new cat.

(Can also make out of angle iron).

This has been my plan for years should I need to replace my cats.

If you have that most difficult problem resolved will make it easier to find a welder or possibly warm the feet of the old one.

Nice, they're already arrived.
Another reason I recommended HJS is that they're metallic cell vs. OEM ceramic that you posted picture of.
HJS being metallic and combined with their heavy duty cell winding makes them really the best.
Now that you have them in your hands you can probably see the quality first hand.

Very clever:thumbup:.

Yep, they look pretty solid compared to the OEM ones. If only I could do TIG welding ... TIG welders are hard to come by and the few I've found want easy projects. It appears to be a highly rare but very valuable skill. When I grow young again I'd want to pursue this skill:bustingup.

When my wife's 01 started setting errors for worn out cats and I searched for new ones, I found complete pipes for about $1200 a set or half from Russia. Or I could find 5 star review bare cats for $130@

It took me minutes to come up with the plan of remove them build a strong frame to hold the exhaust pipe exactly in place to cut out the old cat and hold in exact place to weld in a new one.

Then I first tried adding defoulers and that worked for a couple years until we sold the car.

With cats weak isn't dead. You can definitely squeeze more life out of some tired cats. (they can't be complete dead they have to still work just be a little slow)

I'm in luck again:D. Found a TIG welder who says this is a small project for his sheet metal works business. They have RIG equipment that would hold the exhaust in position at multiple points they setup, they cut off the old catalytic converters and then TIG weld the new ones. They said they don't even need the vehicle at all as long as the exhaust I bring to them is intact. They recommend I bring exhaust stubs left on the vehicle when the catalytic converters were stolen. They may need to cut off a couple of pieces from it in case the new cats are not exactly the same length as the old cats, and use those pieces to fill up any gaps.

Seeing them this Monday. Can't wait!

Progress! Awesome


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I think size matters! Hopefully it lasts long enough that after paying for the welding it's still a good deal!

excellent idea! clamp up the intact part and cut&replace

buy used and sell
 

OnlyX5,


Have you thought to buy a used X5, remove the exhaust, then sell to the junkyard the sav?