I just changed my motor (all stock and the same motor) and I noticed while I had everything apart, that my catalytic converter is just about fully clogged [looking]. There is still plenty of wind at the tail pipe, but I need to start looking into replacing it. The 92 VX seems to have a unique (or close to unique) cat and a 5 wire o2 sensor. Because the cat is so expensive on this model (I found the cheapest one for about $245) I was wondering if there is another alternative, like a header and a different cat further down or whatever? Any ideas?

Also, I know it's illeagal and such, but how hard is it to bore out a catalytic converter and remove the goods? I'm pretty much the biggest environmentalist I know so save the speaches. I just was curious and thought it would be good to know for an emergency fix so I don't blow my motor if it clogs and i have to wait on a new one to get here. (my CRX lost it's engine to a clogged cat 10 years ago and I don't want my civic to suffer the same demise!)

thanks guys.

 

disclaimer: I am not condoning hollowing out a cat...

that being said...it is very easy to hollow out. A big stick, dust mask, and a little time is all it takes.

yes you can replace it with much cheaper aftermarket cat and it will be just fine. Any D series header will bolt up if you wanna go the route of using a different header/cat combo.

 

Could I use my same o2 sensor? It goes into the top of the exhaust manifold right by the oil stick now. Do most, or any, headers have a spot for that? Would I gain anything but a few saved $ by going this route? And finally, What's with the $20 cats on ebay?

 

Carsound cats are good cats for cheaper than stock....you can re-use your o2 sensor, but most other headers located it in a different spot on the header, you just have to extend the wires if they dont reach, no big deal.

 

Buy a cheap ebay test pipe.

 

Hammer + long screwdriver FTW!