Where's my cat?

Technical questions and answers about the Mazda Bongo

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weebrian
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Where's my cat?

Post by weebrian » Fri Feb 20, 2015 10:38 pm

My '98 V6 developed a few exhaust leaks and had started to sound like a Spitfire, so off to MJI in Walsall for a new stainless job.

The fitter called me over to discuss what I wanted and explained that there didn't seem to be a catalytic convertor where there should be one. Where it should be had a small silencer box welded in its place. He asked if it had any problems at MOT time which it hasn't on any of the four occasions since import. Emissions have been OK.

Should I be worried now the exhaust has obviously been replaced and no cat fitted or assuming the emissions are fine will the inspector not notice?
Bob
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Re: Where's my cat?

Post by Bob » Fri Feb 20, 2015 11:15 pm

I would suggest if it hasn't been a problem then don't try and fix it. :wink:
Take a torch, toilet roll, and tea bags.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=hcF9JSxkUSE
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Simon Jones
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Re: Where's my cat?

Post by Simon Jones » Sat Feb 21, 2015 10:30 am

This diagram is for '97 onwards and it shows there should be a cat at the start of the system: http://lushprojects.com/bongopartsmk2/c ... mgno=.html

It is an MOT failure if cat was originally fitted and subsequently removed, but with a grey import it is perhaps more tricky for the tester to prove there was one. A rusty old exhaust may draw less attention to it than a shiny new one which might raise concern that it has been intentionally de-cat'ed.
rita
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Re: Where's my cat?

Post by rita » Sat Feb 21, 2015 11:37 am

If the Cat is missing it is a MOTT failure, it may also be the case that another/other warning light/s might be doctored, I would (now that you know )have a Cat fitted as should be and the associated parts back in working order. Taking a vehicle for a MOTT and KNOWING that there is a major part missing is a serious offence.

I would be very surprised if the Exhaust fitter would fit the system without a cat if they knew by Law that one should be fitted.

Good Luck.
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weebrian
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Re: Where's my cat?

Post by weebrian » Sun Feb 22, 2015 6:22 pm

Thanks guys, I wasn't worried before but I am now. I've decided to see how much it would cost to have one retro fitted at the exhaust place.
rita
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Re: Where's my cat?

Post by rita » Sun Feb 22, 2015 7:35 pm

Just out of curiosity what was the cost of your replacement stainless steel system.

You could PM me if you don't want to broadcast.


No pun intended

"curiosity killed the cat"
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helen&tony
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Re: Where's my cat?

Post by helen&tony » Mon Feb 23, 2015 4:37 am

Hi
It's a pity there isn't a "dummy cat" to slip over the exhaust at MOT time (I didn't say that :lol: )
Cheers
Helen
In the beginning there was nothing , then God said "Let there be Light".....There was still nothing , but ,by crikey, you could see it better.
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weebrian
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Re: Where's my cat?

Post by weebrian » Mon Feb 23, 2015 9:28 am

No problem Rita, from the down pipe back it was £295. A few others have paid the same. Custom built and it took two hours.
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