Some good info on confirming catalytic converter performance on youtube. IR gun is available at harbor freight for $20:


I looked at amazon's reviews of Magnaflow direct fit catalytic converters and they were uniformly good. Biggest complaint was absence of gaskets needed to complete connection, about $20. New bolts may be necessary where salted roads are frequently run.

good luck

 

My magnaflow has done well. I've had to change the gaskets just because I have taken the exhaust apart a few times but no complaints. Magnaflow lives up to their name.

 

I'll give that test a try. We have one at work I can borrow. FYI, I just wanted to share this link on catalytic converter efficiency I thought was very informative. It is pretty technical but very really made some of the theory clear: http://www.bearriverconverters.com/data/CatOpp.pdf

 

The linked document on Catalytic Converter Theory and Testing implies you need an exhaust gas analyzer to do any significant diagnostics. Temp rise test may be misleading was my read.

good luck

 

I know this is an old tread, but it is exactly what I was looking for. I purchased the IR Thermometer at HF, $25.00.