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98 Astro van catalytic converter replacement( VIN code W)

Sent to Car Experts September 10, 2006 10:41 a.m.

I live in MI, and own a 1998 Chevy Astro van that I purchased from CA, and it has CA emissions. We were recently on vacation, driving through NC, when it started running terribly, barely going over 10 mph. We had it towed to a shop, and they thought the catalytic converter was plugged, so they cut it off and welded a straight pipe in it's place. Now that we're back home, I need to replace the cat converter(I don't think it was bad, as I could see clearly through the old one when holding it up to the light, but rather probably got some bad gas). What I need to know, is whether I can install a non-CA certified converter(much cheaper price)(y-pipe/converter/pipe to muffler is a one piece unit). Are the pipe dimensions all the same, or are just the converters different for CA emissions? I'm also going to replace all three O2 sensors as well, as this van has around 107,000 miles. Thank you for any replies that will point me in the right direction for correct repair. David from MI.........

Edited by Customer (name blocked for privacy) on September 10 2006 at 1:24pm

Optional Information:
1998 Chevrolet Astro 4.3 Vortec

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $8

Answer
September 10, 2006 12:06 p.m. (1 hour and 24 minutes later)

ACCEPTED

The converters are the same, you can buy aftermarket converters and have one welded back in place. All you would need to know is the pipe size which your vehicle should be 21/4" inlet and outlet. As far as the O2 sensors I would not replace them until they fail I have seen cars with 200,000 miles with the same O2 sensors in them. If you could see through your old converter it was still ok. Gas could have been the issue.

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ASE Master Tech, Parts Specialist, Manager of a Major Auto Repair Shop. 25 years experience

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