Cat converter

[Jbpka06]

My exhaust is rusted out and I will need to replace it. I was figuring just to go the cheap route and do magnaflow, sound doesnt really matter too much. What are my options for a catalytic converter, dual/dual? Im planning on just getting custom pipes from the cat back. Should i do 2.25" single to a single/dual muffler or keep the dual exhaust? Any input is appreciated I'm really confused.

Jesse

[Scott314]

The OEM Eiberspacher exhaust is good quality, and not that expensive. If you want to go to a single pipe setup, go for a 2.5" with a Y-pipe just behind the downpipes. If you're planning on staying with dual pipes and want to replace the OEM cat, those things are an arm and a leg new.

[Jbpka06]

should i just get something like this, and does anyone know where i can get one for cheaper than $80 on justmagnaflow.com


There is also one of these.

I just want a cheap exhaust so i will pass inspection.

If i get a y-pipe welded in after the downpipes and run a single 2.5" that should be good right. That seems much cheaper because single/single cats are much cheaper.

[bimmers4life]

ebay

[Jbpka06]

should i just do a y-pipe with a cheapo 2.5" catco then pipes back to a 2.5" in/dual 2" out. does that sound like a setup that will work without alot of problems?

[Budget Beater]

do a full 2.5" system, catco cat is $37 on ebay brand new and is same to magnaflows carsound cat. it also improves sound as well as performance. I replaced my full system with 2.5" system (look at my budget beater link below). hope that helps

[Jbpka06]

I like what you did, but how much was the y-pipe you welded in cost? because the magnaflow cat will weld right up with 2 reducers. Im open to anything, i just want to keep it cheap, i can get the labor for free. Whats the stock pipe size on a 325i?

[Jordan]

Something alot of people don't seem to understand about cats:

The major catalyst in them is Platinum.

Look up the price of Platinum per OZ.

Now apply your new found knowledge.

Factory cats have a high amount of Platinum, last just about forever, and are VERY good at being a catalyst.

Cheapo after market cats... well... did you learn anything?

[Insanity]

Another fun fact about catalytic converters:

Keep your engine in good shape, and you won't need a functional one to pass smog.

[Jbpka06]

Well theres a big ass rusted hole in the heatshield of my cat with insulation hanging out and more rust under that. What do u do then?

[Insanity]

take off the heat shield

[Jbpka06]

The cat under the hole has rust on it too, wont that eventually rust out too?

[Insanity]

Most likely. but you'll definitely hear it when it does.