m103 Is the catalytic converter catalyzing?
 

My 87 260e like most 103s I suppose, has a what I've seen described as a pre-cat set up ahead of the oxygen sensor, then the actual converter and a couple of mufflers.

Question: since I live in a state without emissions testing, I don't know what if anything that 26 year old catalytic converter is doing. Does it even need to be there if the 02 sensor is ahead of it?

Mine has some holes in it and needs replaced and am trying to work out a good solution and hopefully an inexpensive one...

Thanks.

You can tell if the cat is working by smelling the exhaust. I'm sure it's not working as well as when it was new, but is still probably doing something.

You need to keep the oxygen sensor.

Beware of cheap aftermarket cats, they don't work very well.

-J

I've heard that about after market cats. That said, I'm wondering if catalizing those gases is really necessary - setting aside obvious legalities.

It really does clean up the tail pipe a lot, with very few detractions on how the car drives.

-J

Removing a catalytic convertor and replacing it with a straight pipe is considered tampering with emission control equipment and can be subject to heavy fines. However, that's only if you get caught, which is pretty unlikely if you live in an area without smog checks. If you care about the environment enough to spend the extra money, replace with new cats. If you're like me and don't really GAF, you can reduce cost and weight going with just a pipe.

I agree with skippy, I live in the strictest state of emissions and I had my cat hollowed out for a period until I had to do smog and I bought a new one. I do not think man can destroy an entire planet, and if it does happen, none of us on this forum, will be around to see it. Ditch the cat and get a straight pipe

FWIW, my '90 300SEL with those 'precats' were really just hollow pipes somewhat like a Diesel style muffler. Very odd. I put a piece of rebar down there and nothing was there.

If you dump the cat, just scrap it and do not gut it. They are worth some decent cash when you sell them as scrap.

I made $80 a cat on mine,my state does not do emissions.
Man has destroyed a planet look at Mars

Man cannot destory a planet any more than a single raindrop can erode a mountain range. Think plural; think time.

I don't think man had anything to do with Mars. Last I checked we haven't been there, yet.