Catalyzing and exhasting question! (560 SEL 1989)

[hbofinger]

Well, the center muffler went, and as I was starting to work on the exhaust I noticed that the heat shrouding around the lower catalyst was rusted and loose. I now realize where the noise comes from when I go over bumps.

So the question is: I know the catalyst is still good, I pass emissions without a problem. The part is not cheap. So what do I do? Cut away the old shroud and hope for the best? Learn how to weld? (That's even more expensive than a new converter!) Any ideas or suggestions?

Thanks!