1998 Chevy Cavalier - Getting a code! Can't Fix!

Tiny
JGUMP810
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 150,350 MILES
My check engine light keeps coming on.
It says:
Catalyst Efficiency below threshold Bank 1

I had a mechanic tell me it was either my O2 sensor or my catalytic converter.
So, This is what I did.
I have replaced both O2 sensors, 1 and 2/upstream-downstream. I had the Catalytic Converter checked, it was fine and fully functional. Although, in the past year I've had the catalytic converter replaced with a universal. I heard that if the O2 sensor wasn't within a quarter inch of the original setup it would cause a code.

I have replaced Map sensor, Idle control valve sensor, Coolant Temp Sensor, and other parts due to a previous problem.

Other thoughts:
The car seems to be running fine.
However, I have noticed a clicking noise when I start it up occausionally. I've also noticed a rough idle when I give it gas up to 5 RPM and let it off it will act like its getting ready to quit/choking then it will stabilize to a normal 1 RPM idle rate.

-The only other thing I can think of that might be wrong with the car is I'm losing antifreeze somewhere. I have to fill it at least every oil change, sometimes in a week if I take long trips. I have changed the cap because it was leaking from there last summer and it had temporarily stopped the problem.

Basically I just need to figure out what is causing this code!

Thanks for your time!
Monday, February 16th, 2009 AT 10:35 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
2CARPRO JACK
  • MECHANIC
  • 11,533 POSTS
The universal cat is most likely the problem. Personally I only install OE cats to keep this sort of problem from occuring. The aftermarkets are cheaper for a reason. Usually less reactive material, just enough to get the job done, wheras an OE unit is made to last for many miles. Have the cooling system pressure tested for leaks, if none found have the cooling system chemical tested for exhaust gasses (head gasket)
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Tuesday, February 17th, 2009 AT 7:37 AM
Tiny
JGUMP810
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Would it be ok to just buy a direct fit pipe and using the existing cat? Or is there any manual where I can see the the measurements?

I did a pressure test today. Seemed like the antifreeze was coming from the head gasket. Its not losing a significant amount of antifreeze. To my knowledge has only got hot 1 time.(But thats all it takes). Someone suggested a head gasket fix in a bottle, know anything about that and if it has worked?

Thanks again.
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Tuesday, February 17th, 2009 AT 3:27 PM
Tiny
2CARPRO JACK
  • MECHANIC
  • 11,533 POSTS
A direct fit pipe? You need the stock cat and the proper amount of pipe around it. I dont know where you would get the measurements you are looking for
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Tuesday, February 17th, 2009 AT 4:08 PM

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