[T2] Catalytic Converter to Muffler gasket

[Kevin Guarnotta]

Update:

I got a link from Steve to a gasket from Autohausaz.

Bob suggested I search the classifieds on thesamba. I found one on classifieds. An NOS one, for decent price.

I'm going that route. I'll get one.

Yesterday - before finding a replacement, I cut the bolts off, and removed the old gasket. I then cleaned up all the metal (wire brush, Dremel). Painted it with some super high temp paint, and I'm going to get some new bolts, and try to re-use it.  Should work for a while - next time - I'm going to convert it to just use that triangular gasket. The gasket itself looked ok.

Of course the muffler strap broke, and the bolt that held it in place broke. So tomorrow I'll try to drill it out. And get a new bolt for there too. I'm trying to figure a way to patch that strap, so I can put it all back together again - while I wait to get a new strap.

Eventually - i.e. next time I address this issue I will just go to my local muffler shop, and have them weld triangular flanges on the two parts and be done with it.  I see I can get a new CAT with the flanges on it. There are different types, a CA one and one for the rest of the world. What is the difference? The CA one is much more expensive.

When I do go the route of changing to the triangular flanges, I assume I should have the CAT in hand - so the flange can be welded to the muffler in the right orientation, right?

Also aside from the excess pollution prevented by the CAT what does it do for the bus? IE should I get rid of it altogether? Does it really help clean the exhaust? Do they affect performance?

-Kevin Guarnotta
Jamaica Plain, MA

'78 Westy
'69 Singlecab
'65 Ez-camper