99 Firebird Catalytic replacement.

GALLOGLAS

MEMBER
1999 FORD

I have a 99 Firebird V6.

The check engine light came on and confirmed already suspected Catalytic Convertor problems. (We've had a rattle for some time)

Turns out the place wants close to 300 bucks to fix it. On military paycheck, that is just more than we can afford right now.

Is this repair something that would be too difficult for someone with basic mechanical skills to do?

Is there anything I need to watch out for if I decided to replace this myself?

Are there going to be any special tools that I need?

Is there, if any, a paticular brand of Catalytic convertor best suited for this replacement?

5 Replies

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

Without seeing that part it's hard to say on replacement. I'd stay steer clear of the universal ones though. Direct fit is the way to do it right. Probably need a torch at the least.

Converters carry a 8 year/80,000 mile warranty-oem, didn't catch your milage.

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Tuesday, February 6th, 2007 AT 4:59 PM

GALLOGLAS

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3 POSTS

107K mileage.

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Tuesday, February 6th, 2007 AT 5:00 PM

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

Bummer.

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Tuesday, February 6th, 2007 AT 5:12 PM

GALLOGLAS

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It looks exactly the same as whats underneathe the car.

It looks as though I may not need a torch.

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Tuesday, February 6th, 2007 AT 5:23 PM

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

Maybe, maybe not.

The circled ends my be a treat to get out, heat may make a difference. Play it through your head how your going to drill them out if they snap.
The arrowed end may also present a challenge that a torch may make much easier. Not to cut through but to make them more susceptable to movement. You can also cut out the pipe portions that may be in the way with a torch.

My guess is it will be an experience :)