CATS..........

[CanuckRam1313]

Anybody have data on average catalytic converter lifetime on the 5.7 Hemi ?

** from google ai


The average useable lifespan of a Ram 1500 5.7L HEMI catalytic converter is typically 10 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles (160,000 to 240,000 km). However, with meticulous engine upkeep, OEM converters often outlast the vehicle's functional life, while neglect or engine issues can cause failure much sooner.

Lifespan Factors for the 5.7L HEMI
The durability of your catalytic converter largely depends on engine health and driving conditions. Because HEMI engines are prone to specific wear, certain factors can shorten or extend the converter's life:

• Engine Misfires: Unburned fuel dumping into the exhaust is the #1 killer of catalytic converters, instantly melting or destroying the ceramic honeycomb.
• Oil Consumption: HEMI engines can consume oil due to blowby or valve guide wear. Excessive oil or coolant burning contaminates the catalyst, significantly reducing its lifespan.
• The "HEMI Tick": Camshaft and lifter wear (known commonly as the "HEMI tick") causes reduced engine efficiency, leading to rich fuel mixtures that will ultimately damage the converters.
• Driving Habits: Frequent short trips prevent the exhaust system from reaching optimal operating temperatures, which allows moisture and carbon deposits to build up and degrade the internal honeycomb.

Signs Your Converter is Failing
If your catalytic converter is going bad, you will likely notice one or more of these symptoms:

• Check Engine Light (CEL): Trouble codes like \(P0420\) or \(P0430\) usually indicate the converter's efficiency has dropped below the legal threshold.
• Sluggish Performance: A clogged converter acts like a cork in your exhaust, preventing the engine from breathing properly (notable during heavy acceleration or towing).
• Reduced Fuel Economy: A failing or clogged converter disrupts the engine's backpressure and air/fuel ratios, leading to poor gas mileage.
• Sulfur Smell: A distinct "rotten egg" smell originating from your tailpipe or underneath the cab.

Replacement Costs
If you need to replace your catalytic converter, prices and legal requirements vary by location:

• OEM Replacements: Factory Mopar replacements can cost upwards of \(\$1,000\) to \(\$2,000+\) depending on the model year.
• Aftermarket Alternatives: Direct-fit aftermarket converters (such as direct-fit Y-pipe assemblies from brands like Magnaflow) typically range from \(\$500\) to \(\$1,500\).
• Regulatory Compliance: If you are located in a region with strict emissions laws, you may be required to purchase a specialized, CARB-compliant catalytic converter rather than a standard federal unit.

Maintenance Tip: The best way to prolong the life of your 5.7L HEMI's converters is to stay on top of routine spark plug replacements, address engine misfires immediately, and track your oil consumption.

 

[kurek]

Funny how I keep not having a lot of the problems that people complain about on here. Must be real lucky.

 

[kurek]

** from google ai

the liebot also said :

*** googler ai is saying the following:

How it Affects Your HEMI

• Loss of Low-End Torque: The 5.7L HEMI relies on a certain amount of exhaust backpressure. Straight-piping or gutting the cats often results in a noticeable loss of low-end torque.

which is the debunked-est claim in the history of the internal combustion engine.

I'm wondering how many people have died so far because a large language model told them it's fine to eat thumb tacks and go ahead with that idea to wash 'em down with antifreeze.

 

[Wild one]

I keep not having that problem on any of my high mileage vehicles.

I highly doubt that.The cats deteriorate slowly enough you just haven't noticed the power decrease.

 

[CanuckRam1313]

I highly doubt that.The cats deteriorate slowly enough you just haven't noticed the power decrease.

 

[Tray Burge]

Just noting this thread so I can come back to it in 1.5 years when my truck looses it's cats at 25 years of age.
Thanks Wild One, I knew about using the O2's, but didn't know how to do it.
To Cannuck wanting to hot rod his mandatory work truck.
Why not just keep it as a work truck and get another older, cheaper one to hot rod. Work vehicles and hot rods have never been a good combination in my experience?

 

[CanuckRam1313]

Just noting this thread so I can come back to it in 1.5 years when my truck looses it's cats at 25 years of age.
Thanks Wild One, I knew about using the O2's, but didn't know how to do it.
To Cannuck wanting to hot rod his mandatory work truck.
Why not just keep it as a work truck and get another older, cheaper one to hot rod. Work vehicles and hot rods have never been a good combination in my experience?

If I could, I absolutely would!!

Down the road when funds allow for it I'd like a 60' D100, or a 57' Chevy.

 

[Tominator223]

04 5.7. Dropped a valve at 160,000mi. And cat on the good side blew out completely . Bad side of engine still a good cat. Bought 2 at a supplier took to muffler shop & still have those on workin ok. 18-20yrs. Also have 2 97 vehicles with oe cats. 120k mi on 1 and 250 on the other. In the 90’s they built a 700hp vette in Cali that passed emissions in Cali. When I saw that I quit cutting cats off. I believe it was the Sledgehammer

 

[CanuckRam1313]

Stick a set of these under the rear 02's,and they'll kill any lights you might get.

Ordered the 90deg pair just in case as I'll be at the exhaust shop getting work done.

Still on the fence on what to do (high-flow or cat-less) - don't even know if the exhaust shop will do the cat-less for me if I request it due to liability, etc., we'll see

Regardless, high-flows will be better than the stock ones.

This current state of lack of "go-go" in my HEMI is not pleasing..lol

Thanks for the info... and... I'll grab a can of carb-cleaner so the rear O2's can be sprayed out whilst the shop does the work.

 

[Wild one]

Ordered the 90deg pair just in case as I'll be at the exhaust shop getting work done.

Still on the fence on what to do (high-flow or cat-less) - don't even know if the exhaust shop will do the cat-less for me if I request it due to liability, etc., we'll see

Regardless, high-flows will be better than the stock ones.

This current state of lack of "go-go" in my HEMI is not pleasing..lol

Thanks for the info... and... I'll grab a can of carb-cleaner so the rear O2's can be sprayed out whilst the shop does the work.

I'm not familiar with a 5th Gens exhaust,but usually on the majority of exhaust systems the straight ones are easier to fit in place,as you don't have to extend any wiring,while with the 90's you sometimes don't have enough wiring to reach. I'd buy both versions,and return the ones you don't use.If you were closer i'd just give you a set,as i have both styles on my shelf,and the 90's have been there for several years

 

[RamDiver]

I'm not familiar with a 5th Gens exhaust,but usually on the majority of exhaust systems the straight ones are easier to fit in place,as you don't have to extend any wiring,while with the 90's you sometimes don't have enough wiring to reach. I'd buy both versions,and return the ones you don't use.If you were closer i'd just give you a set,as i have both styles on my shelf,and the 90's have been there for several years

Conrad is sporting a 4th-gen Warlock.

.

 

[CanuckRam1313]

I'm not familiar with a 5th Gens exhaust,but usually on the majority of exhaust systems the straight ones are easier to fit in place,as you don't have to extend any wiring,while with the 90's you sometimes don't have enough wiring to reach. I'd buy both versions,and return the ones you don't use.If you were closer i'd just give you a set,as i have both styles on my shelf,and the 90's have been there for several years

The straight ones you posted on amazon Canada indicate currently unavailable.

If ya could sell me the straight ones you have, I'm happy to send the funds with expedited shipping
And the "liquid wrench" of your choice, too!

I've got the 4th Gen Classic 23' Warlock. Not sure if that's a consideration for utilizing the 90's.

Appreciate you, Brother!!!!!!

 

[Buddy]

May I suggest, we are in Ontario - California North, read weak. Very weak.
Lol
But I grew up in the no cat era too, so have no fuzzy connection to them. But, the times here have 'a changed(ing). I myself would go high flow cat. If you decide no cat, at least throw the cats you have now on, hollow them out, so they are there for 'anyone' looking under.
I think things here will get tighter as well, the agenda needs to get pushed for the climate change hoax... oh, I meant grift... oh again, I meant....

 

[Wild one]

The straight ones you posted on amazon Canada indicate currently unavailable.

If ya could sell me the straight ones you have, I'm happy to send the funds with expedited shipping
And the "liquid wrench" of your choice, too!

I've got the 4th Gen Classic 23' Warlock. Not sure if that's a consideration for utilizing the 90's.

Appreciate you, Brother!!!!!!

These ones show in stock with 8 left.

304 Stainless Steel Universal Mini Catalytic Converter Check Engine Light Fix O2 Oxygen Sensor Adapter for Exhaust Downstream Pipe - 2 Pieces : Amazon.ca: Automotive

304 Stainless Steel Universal Mini Catalytic Converter Check Engine Light Fix O2 Oxygen Sensor Adapter for Exhaust Downstream Pipe - 2 Pieces : Amazon.ca: Automotive

www.amazon.ca

 

[Wild one]

Before i forget,throw them in a vise and use a pair of pliars / channel locks / small pipe wrench etc.,to tighten the caps on the bottom. I've had them come with the caps just barely finger tight

 

[CanuckRam1313]

These ones show in stock with 8 left.