Bad cat?
 

The car: 1988 245DL (auto); it tanked the smog test, evap test was fine, I suspect the cat is to blame. It has passed before. I've had this 245 about 2 years. How hard is it to do a cat-job yourself?

Thanks,

chris

how is the O2 sensor?

did you run the car for a while before the test? that really helps the cat burn cleaner.

you would have to buy a replacement cat, then you just lift the car, undo the bolts and remove the cat. if it has never been removed, you will need some help from liquid wrench or Pblaster. best way to do it, is to cut it of, and weld a new one in. if you can weld, then all your buying is materials. if not, bring it somewhere local, and have them weld a new cat. Could cost ~$200+.

It was warmed up pretty good. I'll check that O2 sensor too.

Thanks,

chris

WEll, Change your oil, change your plugs, new Air filter, use high octane gas. If it then doesn't pass, You can put a gallon of white fuel in with like ten gallons of high octane. Or you can reduce the amount you put in by using that conversion. You can also disconnect a vacuum hose on the intake.