Well after alot suggestions from friends and other users here in the forum I purchased a new catalytic converter. I installed the new one yesterday and wow it made a dramatic difference. I now how alot of power and it runs so much smoother than before.

My issue that i'm running into is that the preheat hose shield and converter heat shield don't fit on the new converter unless I attempt to do a good bit of modifications to them so they somewhat fit. I was wondering if I should go ahead and modify them to fit or if it will be ok without them?

The catalytic converter that I purchased is made by DEC. Here is a link to a picture of it. http://pictures.deccats.com/VO3527.jpg

 

The cat is part of the exhaust manifold?

Ahh crap.......I knew the BMW was like this, but the Volvo too .... they don't make anything easy...

 

I'm having a similar issue. I have a busted cat and my mechanic tells me it's all one piece with the exhaust manifold. Does anybody have a link to one that I could buy online or simply to get an idea of what I need? Many thanks.