Got the cats/pipe out and there is no doubt. Most of the cat is dust with a few larger pieces, nothing bigger than about 3 sq. in in volume.
It was the forward cat that died, the puff of smoke was probably all those particles that fit through the honeycomb with the larger ones clogging the rear cat.
I dumped out the detritus and tapped the pipe to, hopefully, loosen any of the clogs. I'll reinstall it until the replacement pipe gets here.
I found a A&B direct fit pipe for $388, a Davico for $360 & a DEC here @ peachparts for $430, compared to the $800-900 I see quoted for a MB pipe (Bosal?), it seems like a no-brainer.
Any reason I should stay away from the off-brands?
How likely is it that I will be able to clear enough of the clog to run for a week or so while I wait for a paycheck?

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1999 E320 (gave to daughter) 250K
1994 F150 (may be the end of its road) 240K
1989 560 SL (Reassembly after paint job) 160K
1986 560 SL (deceased., gave it's life protecting my wife)
1988 300 TE (departed)
1994 945T (still running strong with an upgraded cam) 349K
1986 242Ti (deceased)
1968 GT500KR (under restoration)