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buick 3800 series 2 cat size

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Old Sep 22, 2017 | 01:13 AM
  #11  
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As was mentioned, the generic high flow units have a risk of failing emissions, and some have a risk of setting a catalyst code. It can go either way. Some 3800'* have been able to pass emissions with no cat, others can't pass emissions to save their life.

It may be worth trying a standard aftermarket or high flow unit, especially if you plan to keep maintenance in top shape. If you are concerned about a more definitive solution, look to the units using the term 'Heavy Metal', as those usually solve the problem if the generic units aren't enough. I don't feel that stock replacement is necessary.
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Old Sep 22, 2017 | 06:35 AM
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On another note, not sure if its really worth his effort down the road. A few years ago, I paid $1100 to replace the entire exhaust on my Bonneville. So, $1400 might be a better path for him to take instead of trying to get a car to pass emissions in the future, or some other issue that may arise with the installation of an aftermarket cat. Plus, it will more than likely have a good warranty.
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Old Sep 22, 2017 | 07:49 AM
  #13  
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Originally Posted by Mike
On another note, not sure if its really worth his effort down the road. A few years ago, I paid $1100 to replace the entire exhaust on my Bonneville. So, $1400 might be a better path for him to take instead of trying to get a car to pass emissions in the future, or some other issue that may arise with the installation of an aftermarket cat. Plus, it will more than likely have a good warranty.
yeah, I understand what you're saying. I'll have to give it some more thought. Thanks for all your help both of you!
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Old Sep 22, 2017 | 12:41 PM
  #14  
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Some 3800'* have been able to pass emissions with no cat, others can't pass emissions to save their life.
How in in the world is that possible for Nox/HC gasses? It would almost have to be perfect combustion in the cylinders, which is impossible....
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Old Sep 22, 2017 | 12:45 PM
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Yes, the dealership said the only part they could order was the entire exhaust system.
I have always cut the cat out at the welds, and replaced with GM cats.....hard to believe they are not still available....
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Old Sep 22, 2017 | 03:55 PM
  #16  
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Originally Posted by Tech II
How in in the world is that possible for Nox/HC gasses? It would almost have to be perfect combustion in the cylinders, which is impossible....
I will agree, there haven been other 3800'* here that have had non-oem cats installed that did trip a code. I believe it was most of the 2000+ software systems. So, its gotta be in the programming.
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Old Sep 23, 2017 | 11:21 AM
  #17  
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I used this on both of my cars and have not had a P0420 code since installation. My 2001 Buick LeSabre has a gutted cat and my 1997 Olds 88 just has a straight pipe welded in place of the cat.
O2 Simulator, Angled O2 Simulator clears p0420 / p0430 check engine light simulator Angled Big Daddies Garage
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Old Sep 23, 2017 | 01:11 PM
  #18  
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Mad,

I am not talking about a code, I am talking about passing emissions without a cat...it won't pass......
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Old Sep 23, 2017 | 08:51 PM
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Originally Posted by Mad_Coachman
I used this on both of my cars and have not had a P0420 code since installation. My 2001 Buick LeSabre has a gutted cat and my 1997 Olds 88 just has a straight pipe welded in place of the cat.
O2 Simulator, Angled O2 Simulator clears p0420 / p0430 check engine light simulator Angled Big Daddies Garage
Mad, is this piece easy to install? It looks like a great buy...
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Old Sep 24, 2017 | 08:52 AM
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If you have ever replace an Oxygen sensor then you can do it.
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