How to Remove a Catalytic Converter on a 1998 Chevy Truck
A catalytic converter is an important part of the emissions system in your vehicle, but it's also a consumable product. Eventually, it will wear out and break, and when it does, it has to be replaced by a new unit. That's because it's illegal in most states to sell used emissions equipment. It's also not easy to replace, as it requires welding into the exhaust system. Removing a catalytic converter from a 1998 Chevrolet Silverado, however, is as easy as cutting the exhaust.
Things You'll Need
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Hearing protection
- Eye protection
- Spray penetrating lubricant
- 24-inch pry bar
- Reciprocating saw
- Metal-cutting reciprocating saw blades
Instructions
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Raise the vehicle with the jack, and secure it on jack stands. Double-check that the vehicle is secure before you crawl underneath it. Make sure there is enough room for you to fit underneath the truck while using the reciprocating saw. Put on the eye protection and hearing protection.
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Locate the catalytic converter on the exhaust. It's shaped like a rectangle with rounded corners and has a flat flange down the sides. Cut the exhaust tubing about 2 inches forward of the catalytic converter, using the reciprocating saw with the metal blade.
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Cut the exhaust tubing about 2 inches behind the catalytic converter, using the reciprocating saw with the metal blade. Then spray the penetrating fluid in the exhaust hanger attached to the catalytic converter, and use the 24-inch pry bar to remove the hanger and, with it, the catalytic converter.
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