Need to replace my catalytic converter

[freeclowns]

I have a 94 318is I have been looking around for a stock catalytic converter..I am really not liking the price of what a catalytic converter would run me... I have found them new for no cheaper than 400+shipping..

So I was thinking i could get a custom exhaust made using a 1996 catalytic converter.. What would be the ups and down to this and can i even do it?

[Manolito]

I am interested in knowing why it needs to be replaced.
Did it rust out?
Did you run on three cylinders for a while and cook it?
I have never purchased a new converter and I routinely run cars a quarter-million miles.

You can get a Bosal from Rock Auto for $190 plus shipping. It says "Not legal in Calif." I don't know what the story is there.

[freeclowns]

Well are now i am having a problem burning fuel right... I have a stainless steel muffler that on the inside is the color of fuel and black soot... I was running really bad rich to about a week ago... For some reason after i starting using shell gas and i use shell's injector cleaner the car is running so much better.. That bad thing is she is still not burning it right.. I see now reason a stainless steel muffler should be the color of fuel...


So i mean if anyone can help me out on why i am not burning fuel right..

[Manolito]

It is normal for the inside of an exhaust pipe to be black. It should not look shiny, sooty black, but it should look black. In fact, if it turns gray, that is an indication of a cat that has failed.

If the engine is running rich, that is an engine (or more precisely a fuel metering) problem, not a catalyst problem. If the car ran better after using injector cleaner, that is an indicator of where the problem might be. You are probably going to end up visiting a shop to get some exhaust analysis and engine electrical analysis done before all is well.

[freeclowns]

Well this is what i dont get...With using shell gas and the injector cleaner I am not running rich... I am at 350 miles with the needle in the middle of half and a quarter tank of gas... Last tank of gas i didnt even get 300 miles to a tank...

Also you are every right about going to a exhaust and engine electrical analysis... I was thinking about taking the car to bwm for the engine and i know a good place for the exhaust... So yes or no on taking the car to bmw?

[tiresmokindad]

Hello guys.

Sorry for my ignorance, I really need help. I was confused if the magnaflow catalytic converter is pretty good?and also where to buy? I do some searched, inguiry and I come up with this Magnaflow Catalytic Converter . Anyone tried it here.? Any suggestions, please let me know. Thanks.

[Cu015535]

Hey guys, Can anyone set me in the right direction on finding headers for and e36 3series?