1999 Ford Explorer catalytic converter

OLYBOY636

MEMBER
1999 FORD EXPLORER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
151,000 MILES

Just had both front timing chains (water pump, serp belt) and rear timing belt and all the goodies that go along with it changed because the timing chain tensior's went bad. It was done at a local Ford shop and it runs much better now. The tech noted that the Catalytic converter will need changed soon because he can hear some rattiling. They wanted 900.00 to do this and since I Just gave them 1900.00, I wasnt in the mood to spend more. My question is, how many catalytic converter's do I have and can I use a universal one? Thanks for your ideas. Shawn & Shandi

5 Replies

OBXAUTOMEDIC

MECHANIC
3,711 POSTS

Hello,

Well first off did they even look at the cat to begin with? Probably Not.

Here is what you need to do first crawl under your vehicle and look at the cat, preferably while still cold, look a feel around it especially the Heat Shield. Hit on it a little with your hand and listen for any rattling.

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Saturday, February 13th, 2010 AT 9:42 PM

OLYBOY636

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3 POSTS

The tech says it is the cat on the passenger side. If its at an idle you can hear it. If you even change the RPM by 200 the sound goes away. He did say it was the Cat for sure and to replace it. That is why I wanted to know if there was more than one and if a universal one would work (I want to make sure the O2 sensor wont be affected). Thanks!

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Saturday, February 13th, 2010 AT 9:49 PM

OBXAUTOMEDIC

MECHANIC
3,711 POSTS

Ok, yes you can use a universal Cat the only thing is that you may need extra pipe(Reducers) to get it to fit.

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Saturday, February 13th, 2010 AT 10:04 PM

OLYBOY636

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3 POSTS

Thanks for the info! One last question is there more than one cat on this rig and will the O2 sensor be affected if I use a universal cat? Thanks so much!After spending darn near 2 grand at the ford dealership, I'm trying to save money. I would rather use there parts but over 700 bucks. Wow. Thanks again!

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Saturday, February 13th, 2010 AT 10:19 PM

OBXAUTOMEDIC

MECHANIC
3,711 POSTS

You would need to crawl under and look, could have 2 my diagrams show it could have 2, so not exactly sure.

Using the Universal Cat will not effect the O2 Sensors.

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