Removing the 3rd Cat

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VinnyCL93

New member
I have read alot of forums about the removal of the 3rd cat. For various reasons, but what I am trying to figure out is this.


By removing the 3rd cat can I still pass emissions in NJ ?

I own a 1997 LSC and I know the 3rd cat is causing me problems.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to fix this ?


I was considering an X or H pipe.....
 
P

psychostang

Moderator
The 3rd cat is generally for NoX reduction. You should really have a test done previous to your annual inspection. This way you'll know for sure whether you'll pass or not. If NJ does a visual inspection, you prolly won't pass.
Now, if you don't mind please go to the newbie forum and introduce yourself. We like it, were funny like that. We always like pics too.
 
B

beerdog

New member
Many many Mar8 owners have replaced the 3rd cat with an X-pipe, h-pipe, or x-pipe muffler. Opinions differ on what is the best option. I have never heard of anyone posting up that they failed a test or insection due to removing it.
 
tbirddmnd

tbirddmnd

Listening on 141.850 mHz
All I know is that after I had the 3rd cat/resonator removed my exhaust has stunk like crazy and still does. It's like it's running very rich (most likely is) and the smell is nauseating. I also get it in the vents when the A/C is on in the summer but mainly when I'm at a stop or a light.

There is no inspection in Michigan - there used to be though. I do remember NJ inspection stations, I used to go to the one in Rahway off Route 1/9.
 
S

steve

With "LOD" Since 1997
beerdog said:
Many many Mar8 owners have replaced the 3rd cat with an X-pipe, h-pipe, or x-pipe muffler. Opinions differ on what is the best option. I have never heard of anyone posting up that they failed a test or insection due to removing it.
Click to expand...
I put a double XX pipe in to replace mine. The 3rd cat is down stream of the rear O2 sensors, so no CE lights and no issues passing inspecting, including visual since the regular two cats upstream of the rear O2s are still there.
I never got any stinky exhaust after i removed it as well. But it will sound louder
 
tbirddmnd

tbirddmnd

Listening on 141.850 mHz
Terrific! Wonderful news! When I changed the exhausts on my previous 2 cars (88 Thunderbird 5.0 and 97 Thunderbird 4.6) I had the same exact exhaust stink - really rich and it sticks to your clothes.
 
S

steve

With "LOD" Since 1997
tbirddmnd said:
Terrific! Wonderful news! When I changed the exhausts on my previous 2 cars (88 Thunderbird 5.0 and 97 Thunderbird 4.6) I had the same exact exhaust stink - really rich and it sticks to your clothes.
Click to expand...
Your O2s may need replacing too
 
tbirddmnd

tbirddmnd

Listening on 141.850 mHz
Thanks, I'll try there first since it's a bit less expensive. I hate changing these, even with the tool - I'm not a contortionist!
 
KStromberg

KStromberg

Vortech kicked in yo
VinnyCL93 said:
I have read alot of forums about the removal of the 3rd cat. For various reasons, but what I am trying to figure out is this.


By removing the 3rd cat can I still pass emissions in NJ ?

I own a 1997 LSC and I know the 3rd cat is causing me problems.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to fix this ?


I was considering an X or H pipe.....
Click to expand...
This post is colorful yet no profanity is used. :p
 
svtlincoln

svtlincoln

New member
tbirddmnd said:
All I know is that after I had the 3rd cat/resonator removed my exhaust has stunk like crazy and still does. It's like it's running very rich (most likely is) and the smell is nauseating. I also get it in the vents when the A/C is on in the summer but mainly when I'm at a stop or a light.

There is no inspection in Michigan - there used to be though. I do remember NJ inspection stations, I used to go to the one in Rahway off Route 1/9.
Click to expand...
I have the same smell! but I don't have the 3rd cat or the other cats for that matter. lol. :eek:
 
budpytko

budpytko

Super Senior Associate
Prob because the cats on the header pipes are almost clogged.... rotten eggs smell = bad cats.
 
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