Hello,

I have a 2003 TL Type-S (286,000 km) and my converter is rattling like nuts.

I've been looking around to find a replacement. $1500 at the dealer is nuts! (part only, in Canada )

Does any one know if the Type-S and Base converters are different? The aftermarkets parts don't list which trims it's suppose to be on, some do say Base.

Thanks.

P.S. maybe I should straight pipe it, we don't have emissions testing in my province. will this kill the fuel mileage?

 

Check around for aftermarket converters.
You can get a high flow for less than $300 that will keep your O2 sensors and CEL happy.

 

So far I have contacted all of our auto parts stores here and no one can confirm their converter will be a direct fit for the Type-S exhaust. I believe the exhaust pipe diameter is larger than the base. I checked rockauto and they don't have anything that says it fits Type-S so I'm reluctant to order and then find out it doesn't fit.


Funny thing is I don't have a CEL, but the thing rattles like crazy.

 

Pipe is larger and Type-S is a High Flow cat to begin with.. Rather different than the Base model...

 

Have ya checked the Cat's shields for looseness ?

 

I took off the shields for a few days didn't make a difference so I put them back (with new bolts). If you're under the car and grab the cat and shake it (or tap it), it rattles and makes the same noise. If I push on the tail pipes, it will rattle. Darn thing is probably broken inside. Flex joint looks fine.

 

If you don't care about emissions or check engine lights, just take the cat off and shake the pieces out and put it back on.

 

Just an update. I have completed the replacement of the CAT.

I used the cat listed here: http://www.directfitcats.com/acu1044a-44872.html (they ship to Canada for free too)

It's made by DEC and they are the only company where I have found a separate listing for the Base and Type-S exhaust.
Finding gaskets was also a pain. The gaskets that DEC list do not fit. I had to get my part store (PartSource) to interchange the Acura OEM Part Number. The Altrom JE092 is an interchange match, I was able to get them for $5 dollars each. Honda Dealer (Canada) wanted $18.

The OEM CAT was broken in the section behind the O2 sensor, this explains why I never had a CEL. OEM nuts were 13mm and I needed an impact gun and a bunch of swivel joints and extensions to get around everything to get them out. I replaced all the nuts and bolts because I didn't want to bother with beating out the OEM studs.

Car's all quiet now, no more rattling. Almost 300k kms.