Looking for New Cat Converter, VIN K ?'s and Suggestions
 

Hey Guys,
Long time reader first time Poster, Just set up my account tonight.
Recently had the check engine light pop on the other day. Pulled some codes off the computer, those codes took me to the exhaust and cat.
Checked all pipes and welds, all is in good shape, checked my o2 sensors and they're both secure in flanges.
Currently Running a 2005 LT with the V6 3800 and I'm looking to replace the Catalytic Converter
When searching online I found a number of direct fit, bolt-in-place Catalytic converters. Some with customers giving reviews of improper o2 flange placement and missing gaskets as well as shotty welds. some even saying the ceramic has melted.
Some models of direct fit converters mention they fit VIN K engines, Now at the risk of sounding like a newb, I'm asking what the difference is?
For example there are two different Magnaflow exhaust systems both with same part #, Price, and Specs. However one says it fits the VIN K Engine and the other has no mention of it.
My 8th digit is a K, does this mean I have to buy a specific catalytic Converter? Or can I purchase Standard v6 3.8 LT Cat?

I'm currently looking at a Magnaflow Cat System, As well As Bosal.
Though I've heard good things about Eastern Cat and Evan Fischer?

Thoughts, Suggestions Comments anyone?

Here's the one I bought from summit racing . I have no problem with it..
LINK:http://www.summitracing.com/parts/mp...el/monte-carlo


http://static.summitracing.com/globa...e-23405_ml.jpghttp://static.summitracing.com/globa....jpg?rep=False

Thanks Jerry,
Pretty easy to install?

Yes easy to install :thumbsup:
I have a lift in my garage but I didn't use it when I installed new cat/down pipe.. I jacked the front of Monte up and put it on jack stands .
I used PB Blaster on the bolts .

were the bolts that corroded?
Would a ratchet and wrench or breaker bar work?
I have no problem if i have to replace hardware, or are the studs welded?
ive undercoated my vehicle every year
they still use salts on the road in my province

Edit: Also did you have any issues with check engine lights or exhaust codes relating to cat or 02 sensor after installing new magnaflo

I hate that this thread just ended. I'm having the same issue. I would like to have known how it was resolved.

hey slayer, just saw your post.
I do have the Vin K engine, much like your self.
After much research, and question asking i was able to find out most of our 3.8 engines all have the same crossover pipe and resonator.
So like Zjerry had said the Magnaflo 23405 Direct Fit catalytic converter will fit our vehicles.
I purchased mine from summit racing and it arrived in less than a week.
One downside to the magnaflo converter is the placement of the O2 Sensor bung. Its on the side of the pipe instead of on top of the u-bend. You may have to cut back a little bit of your heat shield in order to put your O2 on.

With that in mind, Walker sells a stainless direct fit bolt on Catalytic converter with the part number 54267. This particular product has the u-bend in the rear pipe and the same o2 placement as an OEM part. and is also a little bit cheaper than the Magnaflo. Because of the nature of the problem i also installed a new Bosch O2 Sensor during the Cat install.
I never disconnected battery so Check Engine light remained on for a couple days. But it went out all on its own after being illuminated for over a year.

Remember your gaskets. Your old ones will probably be in rough shape.
I used walker gaskets with my magnaflow converter parts numbers are:
Walker 31578
Walker 31605

Hope this helps

Thank you very much. That was of great help!