Catalytic Converter Theft. Toyota Truck/SUV owners beware!

[PickyMe]

What is the draw to this particular part? I have a Highlander guess I am okay ?? This should be listed under STRANGE BUT TRUE news.

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[Christian]

Groucho wrote:

Are they that easy to steal? Do you need to pop the hood, or do they go in from under the car?

Mine got stolen last night I have a 1991 Toyota truck perfect clean cut

[Christian]

It seems that they used a torch device to cut mine

[Mark]

I posted Oct. 5 about my catalytic converter stolen from the Home Depot parking lot (Tempe, AZ).

Just an update. I found that you can buy 2" (2-hole) exhaust flanges from J.C. Whitney (google for their site and navigate through their products to find the flanges. The part number is H7257. You might be able to search their site for it.). 2 Flanges for $4 (+$6 shipping).

At Checker Auto they have a 24"(?) length of 2" exhaust pipe for $10.

I took the pipe and flanges to a welding shop to cut the pipe to the correct length, and weld the flanges to the ends.

I used the replacement catalytic converter for the dimensions (17-3/8" from flange mating surface to mating surface, with the pipe protruding 3/16" past the flange mating surface on the end which will be the front, and recessed 3/16" on the other end which is the rear). This was for an '89 v6 pickup.

The flanges come with gaskets, but they don't work well. I simply rolled up some aluminum foil into a 1/2" round straw about 24" long, and twisted it into a tightly compacted string about 3/16" diameter. I coiled that a couple times around the 2" pipe to create a "crush" gasket.(I could have bought the donut gaskets that are used on the ends of the catalytic converter and they would have worked. But, since this straight pipe won't run as hot as the converter, I didn't think I needed to spend $5-$7 for those special gaskets. The fabricated "crush" gasket should work fine.).

Also, the flanges aren't a perfect fit. The bolt holes are a little too narrowly spaced. I had to use a hacksaw to cut the ends open, so the edge of the bolt can extend further to the extreme edges of the flange.(If you're not handy with hacksaws and filing down metal for the finishing tough, the welding shop can do it for you. You just want those outer edges of the bolt holes removed so it's more like an open slot.).

I have about $60 into it.

2 flanges:$10
24" pipe:$10
Welding shop:$35

Now I can run with a straight pipe all the time, and re-install the $110 "Magnaflow" aftermarket converter (which I bought at Checker) every two years when it's time for emission testing.

I have mixed feelings about it. I support environmentalism and conservation. But, it's just too easy to steal this converter. I did the best I could for a number of years. Now I have to take steps to avoid another theft.

[tacomafan]

mine got stolent today, its a shame what people do nowadays, come judgment day there gonna be running from someone they cant outrun!

[BCW]

I just read about a new prevention invention called the CATLOCK that may prevent this from happening to you for about $100. I haven't bought one yet, but the idea is excellent. Do a Google search and see how to buy one.

[Wailer]

Converter stolen off my 95 Toyota 4runner 3 days ago in Phoenix in a gated Apartment complex 30 feet from my apartment. I realized after the fact that I heard it happen but just thought it was a random noise outside. What I would give to have been able to catch them - you just don't F with another man's automobile...