DEC CAT question
 

Hi,
I have a 2001 E430 with 86000 miles, and needed new CAT. I am looking at DEC CAT as dealer are too costly. I am having problem finding the gasket for the CAT, called dealer and they mention the CAT is machine cut and should fix right in without the need of gasket on the OEM CAT.
Has anyone done the CAT replacement using DEC, is it hard to remove the old CAT? what's the recommendation on re-using the old O2 sensor?
Thanks in advance.

RE: DEC CAT question
 

Hi,
I've never seen the exhaust on an E430 but I question...Gasket for the CAT?

MB exhaust systems use cats that are welded into the exhaust pipework. The pipework is joined at several points using "cone" type joints which are reuseable with care or at least commonly available if required.

So does the aftermarket cat come with pipework or is it just a cat that requires to be either welded into the system or possibly has stub pipes that insert into or on the outside of the existing (cut) pipework.

So which cat has gone bad and what has happened to it?

MB use special shaped cats and aftermarket ones are not the same shape. Although they will work fine getting the rewelded system correctly installed is a challenge since packaging (room around hot exhaust components) is at a premium and very often you can end up with rattles etc as parts of the system contact the gearbox or other components.

At least the OE ones fit and will work fine but are expensive. Are you 100% sure the cat needs to be changed. If so how can you be so sure? Usual problem with cats is COLD RATTLE but although annoying this does not stop them working correctly and they will run many thousands of miles in this condition.

Stuart.

RE: DEC CAT question
 

try racepages.com or call eastern cat.
diy of cat replacment on benzworld.org w210 diy section
ohlord