interesting....

I have 15in chrome wheels. The brakes seem to be new technology though...they are dual piston and seem to work pretty well.

Is that what you have? (concerning the brakes)

 

Yes, I have the same dual piston brake calipers as you have. If you look up brake calipers for 2002 and earlier, and then look up a 2003 you will find they have completely different part numbers.

 

Cut out the cat and am going to have a straight piece of pipe welded in because I can't find a f-----g cat to fit the van. The pipe will get me going until I can find one. Thanks for the help everyone.

 

Hi...
Personally, if you going to do that, you should just go all the way and have a friend send you a cat, then have the shop drill a hole for the AIR tube and then have that welded up. If you can find someone to weld in a stright pipe, I am sure they will do this for you.

You will get an O2 code from a straight pipe. The PCM needs to see a difference between the front and rear ones. Welding in a straight pipe will reduced your gas mileage anywhere from 5-15% since the PCM will never drop into closed loop (computer fully managing the engine fuel/air)

 

Thanks, I know you are right. I just can't seem to find the correct cat, so this is just to get me back on the road for now. When I cut my cat out, there was no tube. Had an odd shape, but nothing different. I wish I could post a picture to show people. I don't think it was a conforming California Cat.

 

You were right funair02. The van is running, but not too good without the converter. At least I can paint again. Will continue to look for a direct replacement. Magnaflow fits, just not tested on a 2003 according to the company.

 

Amazon just dropped my price on the Magnaflow 23298. I ordered mine this morning. If measurements or pics will help you figure this out, I'll be happy to provide them when it arrives.

 

That is a great price blackvan!! That model does not fit my 2003. I need 45209 which cost about $450. Please let me know how the install goes. Are you pre-spraying the bolts on the manifold to be able to get them off easier? These bolts look like the hardest part of the installation. Thanks

 

I'm not anticipating any serious problems but it is true, exhaust manfold bolts can be a pain. When the part is warm (not hot) spray on a little PB Blaster, Liquid Wrench or transmission fluid. Allow time for the fluid to penetrate and tap on the nut/bolt lightly with a hammer. Do not force rusted bolts if they arent ready to come loose. Re-apply PB Blaster or whatever and tap some more. 3 applications and several hours may be needed. Soaking it overnight is fine.

I should not have to say this but if you must drive the vehicle you have to wait for the PB Blaster to evaporate or else it'll ignite and you'll have a whole new problem.

If the nut/bolt gets hot and groans or squeaks as you are removing it, stop. Retighten it slowly and spray more lubricant, then try again.

 

Great information blackvan. Are you able to get at the manifold bolts with the dog house off, or do you have to spray them from underneath? Please let me know how you make out. Good Luck!!!