Is it safe to gut the catalytic converter on my 3.1 Grand Am GT?

Question

If I do gut the catalytic converter will it cause my check engine light to come on? Will i get bad gas mileage? And finally will it effect any other parts on my car negatively?

Answer 1

If you have O2 sensors fore and aft of the catalyst, it may set a check engine light unless your engine is running at peak performance. It is also illegal to do that, and why would you want to?

Answer 2

I gutted the cat conv on a 96 model Mustang I had when I was in HS. There are sensors that are installed close to the conv. that check the exhaust for unusual percentages of pollution. I had to replace these sensors with sensors purchased from Summit to keep the check engine light off. Other wise, I couldn't tell any other problems.
Another approach would be to buy a cat back system. This replaces the whole section of exhaust that houses the cat conv. so you o not have to gut them.
If you do gut them, there is a metal screen on the inside of each converter that you must get out with a clothes hanger, or something of that sort. If you do not, you will have some serious problems.

Answer 3

i dont think it is legal to do so, at least in some states. I know a mechanic who knows someone who had trouble with his car, the catalytic converter was clogged, and partly broken, he knocked it about till some fell out. The car runs much better now. Dont worry about the engine light, its better than not being able to drive. As for gas mileage, it might even help it.

Answer 4

No, it's not safe to gut the cat.

The check engine light will come on. This will force your car into "failsafe" mode which will allow it to run but will minimize emissions and adversely affect performance. Fuel economy will likely take a significant hit as well.

Finally, it's illegal to tamper with the emissions control system on your car. If nothing else, you'll fail your emissions test.