Originally posted by egrau:
Ford dealership has recently told me I have to replace the speed sensor and 3 catalytic convertors (clogged)for $2500. I have a 98 SVT with 90,000 miles (emissions warranty gone).
Well I dont have that kind of $$$ right now and I need a temporary fix until I can save up to replace. So after some research, I think gutting the precats is the best way to go. I havent really seen any info on gutting the main cat (as it is clogged also).
Is gutting the main cat possible?, bad for the car?
Is gutting the cats myself hard? (i have no experience working with exhaust systems and very little working on cars in general)


I'm a novice mechanic and I did my own precat gut job. It's mostly just a very dirty and tedious job, especially if you do it with the manifolds still in place. At my skill level, removing the manifolds from the engine was not a realistic option. Then you just need a pair of MIL eliminators to get your CEL off. Don't give that dealer/sheister $2500! If you decide to gut the manifolds in place, make SURE you wear a mask over your entire face!!!!!!! Can't stress that enough. You'll be lying under your car with catalyst material raining down upon you. Before reattaching the y-pipe, shake any loose cat material out of it. If your precats are disintegrating, some of the material has definitely lodged in your main cat. GL.