[Vwdiesel] 2001 Golf TDi needs CAT

[rbp at 4u2bu.org]

exhaust leak last month or two, went to local shop for a diagnosis
catalytic converter needs replacement apparently - rusted and  
decomposing - $900+
help! any alternatives? better places to buy?
wtf? is everyone else pouring a thousand dollars a month into their TDis?
are these things just never-ending money-pits, or will I eventually  
replace everything and have an extended period of buying mostly just  
fuel??
thx
ROlf in MA