Catalytic Converter failed again, whats wrong?

[spud814]

Hey guys,

My Catalytic converter failed again. This is the second one in 7 months. It sounds like there is a can or a pipe inside the catalytic converter rattling, it's really loud, sounds like im just dragging a bunch of cans.

What causes a Catalytic Converter to fail like this? Is there a way to just have the Catalytic hollowed out and welded back on? Advice Guys. Thanks in advance.

[M-technik-3]

A hollowed cat won't pass the sniff test in most places and Cali uses the roller test correct?

Are you using bigger than normal fuel injectors? Unburned gas can destroy a cat as well as excessive heat. What is the running condition of your engine?

[nando]

hollowed out cats are also horrible for flow.

I'd suspect a rich condition somewhere. leaky injector, bad FPR, poor combustion, etc.

[Jonathan M3]

Check your oxygen sensor also.

[AdamF 88iS]

Are you useing OE or aftermarket cats? Aftermarket ones dont last long at all.

[spud814]

I'm using an Aftermarket Cat., I have 212,000 miles on the engine. THe oxygen sensor is new. Everything on the car is stock. How do i check for leaky injectors and FPR? I guess i'll do a compression test, and see whats going on.

[chuckybob]

i was reading tonight in my owner's manual that any amount of lead in the fuel will absolutely kill a catalytic converter, could be that, i suppose.

[uofom3]

i don't believe you can legally purchase leaded gasoline at a pump in the U.S. for road use... anyway, the FPR would be a good place to check i think, as well as replacing your fuel filter. I'm not sure if your car is equiped with one, but could the Baro sensor have anything to do with this??? might wnat to check that as well.

[spud814]

thanks for all the info guys, i'll check all of those out.

[e30excel]

Have a hollowed out one for 2 years and then change it to a new Cat when its smog time.