2.8 A6 catalytic converter replacement source

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Jan 4, 2013 | 02:38 PM

keenyoung

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2.8 A6 catalytic converter replacement source

Does anyone have experience with the cheaper direct fit catalytic converters on Ebay? Or perhaps a better or cheaper source? Do they fit OK? Can I just replace one side? I'm not interested in weld in applications.

Here's the one I'm looking at:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/New-Catalyti...-/230868729922

Thanks,
Keen

Jan 4, 2013 | 05:56 PM

jcman

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From: NE Ohio

Not sure on the fitment but I can say that the cat internal materials are probably not the ceramic honeycomb platinum type like OEM, I'd bet the material is spiral metal wrapped rhodium or some other less grade PMA.

When you compare the OEM price vs an aftermarket one you could clearly see why as the scrap values are high on OEM for the expensive PMA that's why the thief's steal them not after markets.

The Feds require that all car manufactures warranty cats for 10yrs or 100k and I'm not specific in this order however it does suggest that OEM cats last longer and cost more and after market's don't.

The most I've ever heard anyone getting on after markets is 5yrs tops and our Audi's love throwing codes outside of OEM cats, so if you need to do the e-check deal like I do here you might like to reconsider your options.

Jan 4, 2013 | 10:18 PM

keenyoung

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Yeah, well, I love my Audi, but at 173K it's not worth popping $1000 for an OEM cat. I'm just hoping to get another 25-30K on it before it bellies up. So if the cat dies at 50K, I don't care. I just hate the damn death rattle!

I also don't want a big struggle with a so called "direct fit" cat that doesn't just bolt right in. I've heard some horror stories about the Eastern Catalytic direct fit model. However, there is some evidence that they bought the wrong model year. That's why I was hoping somebody might have experience with an aftermarket.

I'm now sort of leaning toward the Walker, which is about $100 more, but claims to be an OE replacement. Also, Walker has a pretty good reputation.

How bout it? Anybody buy an aftermarket direct fit and have a quality experience?

Thanks,
Keen

Jan 5, 2013 | 03:16 AM

4Driver4

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Connecticut Catalytic Converter.

Jan 5, 2013 | 07:42 AM

keenyoung

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Quote:

Originally Posted by 4Driver4

Connecticut Catalytic Converter.

I can't find a website for Connecticut Catalytic Converter. Do they sell direct, or through a distributor? Or are they just a local muffler shop?

Thanks,
Keen

Jan 5, 2013 | 07:58 AM

4Driver4

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They don't do websites. Call them.

Ct Catalytic Converter & Exhaust
400 Ledyard Street
Hartford, CT 06114-3207

Jan 7, 2013 | 11:51 AM

raj99

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speaking from experience...there's no such thing as 'direct fit'...

Only OEM is direct fit.

I bought these from ebay and they are NOT direct fit. I had to cut and weld to make these fit and even then they don't sit as flush as OEM. It's not really noticeable to the average person, but I KNOW they aren't as flush. It took a HECK of a LOT of work to get these to fit and you better have that car up on a lift if you plan to try to do the work yourself. Like I said a major PITA, but alas it did work I have no more CEL and have Cats!