Stolen Catalytic Converter LC100 (1 Viewer)

[ghong14]

The driver side catalytic converter was stolen on my 1998 Lexus LX 470. Reaching out to the forum group here to ask about whether I can replace the catalytic converter or does the mufflers need to be replaced as well. Also appreciate any comments on oxygen sensor.

I live in CA and require a smog test. Appreciate any suggestions OEM v non OEM.

 

[TexasSid]

Weld a new one in. Most good muffler shops can fix you up.

 

[MongooseGA]

You can install just the cats without touching the muffler. Luckily they left you a nice clean cut to weld the new one in. So considerate.

 

[ghong14]

Thanks guys! What about the O2 sensor that is on the converter?

 

[Trapper50cal]

New aftermarket opportunity...Pepper spray emitting cat protection. Or cyanide gas...tomAto/toMAHtoe.

 

[John Young]

Basturds were not gentle, were they.

 

[97 AZ LC]

Thanks guys! What about the O2 sensor that is on the converter?

They can tap into the remaining pipe with a new bung. Did they unplug the sensor or cut the wire?

Amazon product ASIN B098Q6VQTF

 

[ghong14]

They can tap into the remaining pipe with a new bung. Did they unplug the sensor or cut the wire?

Amazon product ASIN B098Q6VQTF

Cut the wire. Everything is clean. Thank goodness.

 

[ghong14]

Basturds were not gentle, were they.

Didn’t think this is a popular model to steal from…

 

[Trunk Monkey]

Most Toyotas are, esp the 4Runners and the like, they're easy to get under and have 2 cats.

 

[TexasSid]

Didn’t think this is a popular model to steal from…

Doesn't matter what model it came from as these aren't resold as is. They are broken down for precious metals extraction.

The last bust I read about was in California where the police stopped a ring stealing these and found 3 MILLION of them in a warehouse! Apparently, they were being loaded in cargo containers and to be sent overseas.

 

[nissanh]

Aftermarket cats are not legal in CA as far as I know and many sellers won't shipp A/M cats to CA address. those bastards cut the trans guard too

 

[GVegasG]

I put aftermarket as oem is way to expensive.

 

[MongooseGA]

Aftermarket cats are not legal in CA as far as I know and many sellers won't shipp A/M cats to CA address. those bastards cut the trans guard too

I guess in that case... leave CA.

 

[ghong14]

They can tap into the remaining pipe with a new bung. Did they unplug the sensor or cut the wire?

Amazon product ASIN B098Q6VQTF

Thank you this is super helpful!

 

[Patron100LC]

There's a few aftermarket sellers that say their CAT's are CARB approved and will pass emissions in CA, but if you're considering keeping the 100 for a long term, do yourself a favor, get OEM if possible, even if used from EBAY, and guard it with a belly pan or something, I did aftermarkets so I don't have to worry about them anymore, but I kinda regret that decision cause they already rattle a bit when cold started, and they stink like cheap chemicals are burnt in there for a while. Plus I know they won't last as long..

Wish there was a resolution to the CAT delete thread about getting rid of CEL successfully. Since I'm not in a state that inspects smog, it'd be ideal, no more worry..

 

[dbfw]

OEM replacement cats for 98-02 are no longer available unfortunately. One of mine was stolen 2 years ago and even then there were none left in the country and no more being made. I had to go with a Magnaflow "oem grade" which as mentioned is already rattling on cold start, I knew that would happen and damn thieves! I installed an ASFIR skid for protection after replacement.

 

[newbielx470]

I installed an ASFIR skid for protection after replacement.

Could you comment on how effective is the ASFIR skid (I assume the aluminum version) for CAT protection?

 

[dbfw]

Could you comment on how effective is the ASFIR skid (I assume the aluminum version) for CAT protection?

I'd say it's an effective option, it doesn't really leave space for the cat to be maneuvered out of the frame and should block tools to cut. Here's my post-install impressions: Catalytic converter anti-theft device needed ASAP - https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/catalytic-converter-anti-theft-device-needed-asap.1273016/post-14256672

 

[ghong14]

Does any one have other catalytic shield suggestion for lc100s?