catalytic converters

[Mark L. Chang]

I was asked for a citation on laws regarding catalytic converter
installation, especially rebuilt ones or used ones.

I am NO expert, and this information is an aggregate of what the exhaust
shop told me, the signs that were displayed prominently in said shop, and
the EPA web site. Of course, I'm sure there are per-state variations as
well.

Here is a useful document, aptly entitled "What You Should Know About
Using, Installing, or Buying Aftermarket Catalytic Converters":
[PDF] http://www.epa.gov/otaq/cert/factshts/catcvrts.pdf

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Some highlights:
"EPA considers it a violation of the policy to install a used converter
from a salvage yard or sell it for reuse unless it has been properly
tested and labeled. Similarly, it is a violation to install an untested
used converter brought in by a customer, even if the customer insists that
the used converter came off his/her vehicle."

"Generally, there are only 3 situations when you can install an
aftermarket converter. They are: (1) if the converter is missing from the
vehicle when brought in for exhaust system repair; or (2) if a State or
local inspection program has determined the existing converter has been
lead poisoned, damaged, or otherwise needs replacement; or (3) if the
vehicle is more than 5 years old or has more than 50,000 miles* (8
years/80,000 miles for 1995 and newer vehicles) and a legitimate need for
replacement has been established and appropriately documented (e.g., a
plugged converter or unrepairable exhaust leaks)."

"Any other converter replacement must be with a 'certified' or new
original equipment (OE) or equivalent converter. Aftermarket converters
subject to the enforcement policy requirements cannot be used for
replacement if: (1) the existing converter is present and functioning
properly; or (2) the replacement is under recall or warranty; or (3) the
vehicle is returning from overseas use."
----------------

These statements do not preclude the legitimate existance and manufacture
of rebuilt catalytic converters, nor does it make it illegal to send your
catalytic converter to an individual registered to remanufacture or
rebuild them.

Of course, YMMV, FYI.

--
http://www.mchang.org/
http://decss.zoy.org/