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Thread: Cat question

  1. #1

    Default Cat question

    Is there a compelling reason to buy a metal-substrate catalytic converter as opposed to a ceramic substrate converter, assuming they are otherwise "equal?" I'm about to order a hi-flow race cat for my midpipe, and can purchase the Magnaflow I want in either substrate version, the metal being about $40 more. I don't mind the added cost, but only if there is some type of benefit.

    The car is daily-driven, autocrossed extensively and will probably see 2-3 track events yearly.
    Polished Turd Racing

    Mick wrote: "I think Jerrett is the best autocrosser I have ever seen naked."

  2. #2

    Default

    Ceramic can physically break and blow out, but from a performance perspective they should be on par with one another. A metal core cat can fail, but it will stay put.

    The primary cost difference is related to the manufacturing cost of the core more than anything else.

  3. #3
    Driver
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    Default

    metal tends to be louder and flow better.

    Ceramic clogs faster.

    Interesting dyno review: http://forums.evolutionm.net/evo-eng...trate-cat.html

  4. #4
    Driver BigDmiata's Avatar
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    Default

    From what I've read they tend to be less prone to fail from overly rich conditions (particularly good if you are working out a tune on your car)
    2013 Mazda2 slushbox daily
    1993 Miata (future exocet donor)

  5. #5

    Default

    Wonder if there is a point of diminishing returns for me if too little backpressure is present. Don't want to give up too much torque.
    Polished Turd Racing

    Mick wrote: "I think Jerrett is the best autocrosser I have ever seen naked."

  6. #6
    Obnoxious at any speed altiain's Avatar
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    Default

    The other issue with ceramic substrate is that sustained high temperature operation (like track days) can break them down really quickly. If they break and clog your exhaust, you can destroy your motor.

    For an extra $40, I'd opt for a metal substrate.

    What is the CPI (cells per inch) count? The lower the number the better the flow, but extremely low CPI metal substrate cats (like 100 CPI) can sometimes trigger CELs.
    Iain

    "We don't stop playing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw

  7. #7

    Default

    Probably going to go with a 300 cell or one of the heat-shielded magnaflow options:

    http://www.amazon.com/Magnaflow-5430...3812397&sr=1-1
    Polished Turd Racing

    Mick wrote: "I think Jerrett is the best autocrosser I have ever seen naked."

  8. #8

    Default

    Ceramic Cat or Metal Cat?



    I suppose if it will be an in door decoration, I'd go with the ceramic on but if I was looking more for out door decor, I think the metal one is kinda fun.
    ...and across the line.

    1996 Mazda Miata - R-Package (Eve-L)
    2012 Mazda CX-9 - Grand Touring (Dory)




  9. #9

  10. #10
    Orange cones fear me. cone-cerned's Avatar
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    Default Another cat question...

    Did you ever think when you eat Chinese,
    It ain't pork or chicken, but a fat siamese?

    source: http://www.lyricsondemand.com/w/weir...tlelyrics.html
    On the track, I am fearless.
    If you were as slow as me, you wouldn't be afraid either.

    1994 M Edition
    CSP 67

  11. #11

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    I have ordered the blue ceramic cat pictured above. I will be bringing it to TDR for installation, and it better work!
    Polished Turd Racing

    Mick wrote: "I think Jerrett is the best autocrosser I have ever seen naked."

  12. #12

    Default

    Quote Originally Posted by OZMDD View Post
    I have ordered the blue ceramic cat pictured above. I will be bringing it to TDR for installation, and it better work!

    Oh! It will, It will!

    I think it will be absolutely FABULOUS!!!!
    ...and across the line.

    1996 Mazda Miata - R-Package (Eve-L)
    2012 Mazda CX-9 - Grand Touring (Dory)




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