Catalytic Converters / Test Pipes
The catalytic converter is a key component of your vehicle's emissions control system, which prevents pollutants from contaminating our environment. It converts the harmful gases Carbon Monoxide (CO), Hydrocarbons (HC), and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) created during combustion, and turns them into water, and the less harmful gases Carbon Dioxide (CO2) and Nitrogen (N2). A faulty catalytic converter can create restriction, reducing exhaust flow and performance. You can eliminate restriction and restore proper exhaust flow, while maintaining emissions compliance, with a performance catalytic converter.
Reducing exhaust backpressure and restriction is a traditional method of increasing performance, and like mufflers, catalytic converters do create some restriction. The converter contains a monolithic honeycomb substrate coated with catalyst materials, usually platinum, palladium, and rhodium. As the exhaust gas passes through the honeycomb structure, it is exposed to the catalyst, which causes the oxidation of CO and HC, and reduction of NOx. In the quest for maximum performance, you may be tempted to remove your catalytic converter, but this is a bad idea for many reasons.
First, it's against Federal law to remove a catalytic converter and you could be subject to a fine if removal is revealed during a roadside inspection. Second, you'll fail an emissions test if emissions inspections are required in your area. Third, converter function is an integral part of your vehicle's engine control system, especially on 1994 and later OBD II vehicles, and you'll illuminate the CHECK ENGINE light and may experience drivability problems if the converters is removed. Finally, your catalytic converter helps reduce pollution and ensure better air quality, and we all need clean air to breathe for good health. A properly functioning converter will have a minimal effect on exhaust flow, allowing the vehicle to meet emissions requirements and perform to its capabilities.
However, damage to the catalytic converter substrate caused by engine malfunction or physical contact can create a restriction, impairing exhaust flow and performance. A rich fuel mixture, which could be caused by excessive fuel pressure, defective oxygen sensor, or stuck open thermostat, or unburned fuel in the exhaust caused by engine misfire, can overheat the converter and melt the substrate, obstructing exhaust flow. Shock to the converter housing due to contact with road debris can break the substrate, also resulting in flow restriction. To ensure peak performance and prevent converter defects, maintain your engine in a good state of tune, but if replacement is necessary, our performance catalytic converters will provide optimal exhaust flow and keep your vehicle emissions legal.
Our performance catalytic converters are designed for high flow so your engine can perform to its maximum capabilities, while maintaining the catalyst efficiency necessary for optimal oxidation and reduction, and they're built with the heavy-duty construction needed to excel in performance applications. We offer EPA and CARB compliant direct fit and universal converters. Universal converters are available in popular performance pipe diameters. However, a universal converter requires pipe cutting and clamping or welding for attachment, while a direct fit converter will bolt right in place of the factory converter. We have direct fit converters that are part of the pipe assembly or exhaust manifold, as well as converters with headers.