Can you straight pipe in place of a catalytic converter on a 01 Zr2 Blazer?

Question

Catalytic converter is starting to give me problems getting abit hot, and has been professionally pin pointed as the problem developing. Plus I want to know where to cut it out and in the front and back? What is the best pipe to use. Converters make vehicles run hotter and make more problems. California is the only emmissions state, and I don't live there.

Answer 1

well you can put a straight peace of exhaust pipe but it is very illegal and there is a big fine if you ever get caught heard it was like a$5,000.00 fine and up ...and your blazer might not run right after you do that messes with the computer... many state have emmissions testing even part of Michigan .. go get it fixed the right way

Answer 2

If the problem is with your catalytic converter, you may want to check with your GM Dealer. Many emissions items have an extended warranty.

Also, a catalytic converter should last the life of the vehicle. A failing catalytic converter is a symptom of some other problem. You should find another mechanic because your current mechanic has no clue. I doubt the capabilities of your mechanic and doubt that he properly tested the device.

A catalytic converter will fail if there is some problem with the combustion process. Usually a rich condition. This is robbing you of performance and fuel economy. Removing the catalytic converter will remove the symptom, but not fix the real problem. You could have oil or coolant getting into the combustion chamber.

The new catalytic converters do not rob power like they used to back in the 70's. You won't see any performance gains by removing the catalytic converter. In fact, it may decrease your performance. Your engine was designed to have this device in place. Removing it may change the readings from your oxygen sensor, throwing off the fuel air mixture. Fixing burnt valves and pistons will cost you a lot more than a new catalytic converter.

If you are going to fix it, fix it right. First, find a new mechanic. Find out why your catalytic converter is failing in the first place. The fix the real problem before you think about replacing your catalytic converter.

Answer 3

Don't know where you're getting your information, but all states are 'emission states', and yeah, you can weld in a straight pipe... don't get caught. Now, years ago, Arkansas law enforcement would oftentimes turn a blind eye to the practice, as a lot of pickups (used for oilfield work) would be rigged like that... for safety reasons. Cat converters are notorious for starting grass fires... and so they'd weld in a pipe before they'd ever hit the oilfield... some companies would, anyhow. That was twenty years ago, don't know about these days.

Answer 4

You should just replace the converter. More states than you think, have emissions testing, and more are popping up.
If you bypass it, you will actually lose gas mileage because of the required back pressure is gone, the pressure balance that it creates is how the computer maintains the proper air to fuel ratio. Trust me, if you don't replace it, your gonna be sorry. and Illegal. (and probably noisy like a rice burner)

Answer 5

You can put a straight pipe in but it will throw a code due to the o2 sensor. You can buy a o2 simulator that just plugs in and sends a signal to the computer without throwing a code. This is illegal though

Answer 6

Legally no. Some states have emission tests and will pull your car off the road if it isn't repaired.

good luck.

Answer 7

fix the heap properly