Miata Mailing List: August 1994, Message #715
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   From: jared@opticslab1.uncc.edu (Jared Stack)
Subject: Catalytic Converter Replacement
   Date: Fri, 19 Aug 1994 17:57:35 -0400

Well the cat is dying. I suppose to most Miata owners that would be happy
news if it was referenced to a feline, but alas the cat in question is my
catalytic converter.

Symptoms are a rattling noise that sounds like gravel is being thrown thru
the exhaust system at medium rpms. Sound is predominant at the middle pipe
section (cat).

My '91B has 79k miles on it... so the emission stuff is out of warranty.

What I'm looking at:

Mazda factory cat, gasket, labor, tax: $578.75 (the cat costs $478.75, but
I can source this thru a Miata club supporting dealer and save 20%). 12
month, unlimited milage warranty (you can drive as far as you want to in 12
mos. :-)

Meineke cat, labor, tax: $193.82; five year 50k mile warranty.

I'm concerned with the cost differential, but if I were to go with Meineke,
would this upset the exhaust note of the Miata? I am also concerned about
the quality of fit and vibration from the Meineke part. The Mazda part is
specific to the Miata, it is not shared by the 323, but it could be the
same cat but with different mounting points in which case I would be
willing to entertain a third party alternative.

Has anyone out there had to replace their cat. converter yet? Advice/warnings?

TIA, Jared

jared@opticslab1.uncc.edu

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|  Jared David Stack               |  Email: jared@opticslab1.uncc.edu  |
|  Development Engineer            |  Phone: (704) 547-3365             |
|  AMP Incorporated                |  Vmail: (717) 986-5360             |
|  Optical Interconnect Systems    |  Fax:   (704) 547-3331             |
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