replacement catalytic converter

[Cajun]

i did search the site before asking this question...I need to replace my catalytic converter. My local shop says that they will only replace it with a chevy bolt-on unit, parts $1,300 plus labor is about $2,000. They are not a muffler shop so no welding. They say that in their experience that aftermarket catalytic converters last 6 months to a year before throwing a code. Has any one changed there own catalytic converter , what brand did you try and what results did you have?

Thanks for the help!

[_STUCKY]

That's a ridiculous price! Personally, I'd go to a muffler shop. I don't know what a new one costs, but a qualified shop could do it in an hour or 3.

[Cajun]

Will be bringing it into Mieneke tomorrow. Quite to cut out old a weld in a universal is $475

[LoneWolf04]

Replaced my whole exhaust from the exhaust manifolds back for around $1100 I think it was. Magnaflow bolt on kit. Have had it for 4 years at least and no codes. It's a quality converter though.

[ApproachMedium]

I had an aftermarket unit installed that lasted for 3 months. The reason was because my engine was not running right. If your engine is running good, no codes no misfires it should be fine. Engine was repaired and the second aftermarket unit lasted until the V8 was installed with yet another aftermarket cat which was a few years later. My v8 has been running with a magnaflow performance cat AND passes local emissions testing for almost 3 years.