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How much pipe needs to be left to install the catalytic converter half kit?

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Nim, Oct 20, 2020.

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  1. Nim

    Nim Junior Member

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    My catalytic converter was stolen late at night a few days ago (UGGGCHH). I had just topped off my oil so I thought I overfilled my oil and wrecked my engine LOL. So I am a little bit thankful that it wasn't my mistake, however I'm definitely dealing with the feelings of violation and such that come with being stolen from. I didn't realize this has been such a big problem this year, otherwise I would have taken preemptive theft deterrent measures.
    I'm not very car savvy, however I have a friend who is willing to install a new cat for me with no labor charge. My horn still works, my fuel speed and odometer display does not. So I'm thinking they cut those wires, but my friend should have no problem troubleshooting that. The thieves only left about an inch of pipe on the rear end of the vehicle, and my question is ...is that enough pipe left to be able to buy the half kit thing (just the cat I believe) or if we need to go ahead and get the catalytic converter plus the whole pipe thing all the way to the back. Sorry, I don't know technical terms! My friend is really skilled at working on cars, however he has never worked on a Prius before so he thought it would be a good idea if I asked here rather than we buy the wrong part and have to wait for shipping again and deal with all that hassle.
    Thanks for reading and any help is greatly appreciated.
     
    #1 Nim, Oct 20, 2020
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  2. TMR-JWAP

    TMR-JWAP Senior Member

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    I'll post a photo of one installed this evening, after I get home.
     
    #2 TMR-JWAP, Oct 20, 2020
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  3. TMR-JWAP

    TMR-JWAP Senior Member

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    Here we go....I think one inch would be adequate if the joint will be welded. It would probably need to be installed, marked or tac welded and removed for full weld. I don't think 1" will be enough if using the clamp.

    The other issue I've encountered is that the flange doesn't seal properly against the exhaust manifold donut resulting in a very audible exhaust leak. Sometimes the pipe bend needs to be tweeked to get the flange at the right angle. Also, only one version I've purchased actually had the correct bolts/springs/donut gasket. Most have Mopar crap included.

    If you want true "ease" of installation, the one piece would be the ticket, assuming the extra $$ also ensures a better flange angle..

    IMG_7915.JPG IMG_7918.JPG
     
    #3 TMR-JWAP, Oct 20, 2020
    bikr357, m.wynn and Nim like this.
  4. Nim

    Nim Junior Member

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    Thank you this reply is very helpful!
     
    #4 Nim, Oct 20, 2020
  5. bikr357

    bikr357 Plugged in Member

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    Can you tell me what manufacturer's product is shown in TMR-JWAP's photos? My '06 that just keeps on going had it's Cat liberated last week while it sat in our driveway.
     
    #5 bikr357, Dec 12, 2020
  6. edthefox5

    edthefox5 Senior Member

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    You really need to take it to a muffler shop and get that connection from the car to the resonator welded its pretty rare that a bolt on will not leak. $80. Just do it right.

    The other issue is they cut the wires to the 02 sensor and took the o2 sensor with the cat when they steal it so you will need a new o2 sensor.

    Here's the cat I bought I and used I sold my OEM cat on ebay for $1350.

    This Amazon one fits perfect and runs great. The included donut gasket with this one is too small for the 07 prius but my original donut was in good shape so was able to reuse it.
    if yours is gone use the OEM gasket its $86 at the dealer. You must use the correct gasket or it will leak bad.

    I painted this one bright orange with header paint so if they try to steal it again and they will try again they should be able to see quickly from the paint and the new weld its an after market cat and move along.

     

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    #6 edthefox5, Dec 12, 2020
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