Did not know if I was going to make it home today. It's a 60 mile round trip that started normal, but after a couple of mild hills I could not make the speed limit. On the last hill before Costco, I was down to 30 mph on a 55 mph divided highway.

The check engine light has been on the last couple trips to town. I checked the OBDII code: 0420 Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold. I was not too concerned about it, but now I am.

My van does not get driven much, only 37,000 miles. The last year or so stays mainly in garage, before that mostly short trips in our neck of the woods. Replaced fuel pump last year after dying on the way back home.

I hope the catalytic converter does not need replacing. Does anyone have any suggestions or likely fixes.

Doug

 

Sorry but it sounds like a plugged cat.

 

Might double check for any new codes from the PCM. If no new ones then you know what to do.

 

Thanks for the advice. I've never had a cat go bad. I wonder what caused this one to go bad with only 37,000 miles. Do short trips have an effect?

Do y'all recommend a direct fit cat?

Doug

 

Short trips are harder for the entire exhaust system for it does not get to full operating temp. So
1) the cat does not work effectivly and will get clogged faster,
2) the rest of the exhaust system will rust faster.

On the direct fit I recommend going with the OEM type and designed. Reason is many of the aftermarket units are smaller and do not last very long even if driven alot.

 

Thanks again, Mobile. The local dealer wants $900 plus for the OEM cat. Looks like I'm going to go with a direct fit Maremont brand for $216 w/ free shipping unless you or anyone else has had a bad experience(s) with a Maremont.

Doug

 

IMO, get one locally from a place like Autozone. They offer lifetime warranties, so if it should go bad you get a new one for free. Better yet, replace the entire exhaust system while you're at it. Then if the cat goes bad you can get new pipes and clamps for free the next time around.

 

Thanks Rich,

I did find the Maremont price at Autozone.com - the closest store is 40 mi. from home. I did not see that they had a limited lifetime warranty besides the lowest price. I'll get the muffler also and will check the pipes before ordering. The website does not show any pipe. Will call the store if needed.

Should the oxygen sensor be replaced also? Seems like it may be hard to remove and reinstall.

Doug

 

That would be a good idea to replace it too. You may need two of them. On my 97 it has one before and one after the cat. I have not put a cat on yet & I have not heard anything bad about the Maremont products. I do like lifetime warrentys myself so if they have it for lifetime I would recommend getting it.

 

Ditto!