5 Best Catalytic Converters (Diesel, 2-way and 3-way)
A catalytic converter is a must to have in your vehicle to keep off dangerous emissions. Failure to that can lead to gross violation of law, as well as environmental pollution. Additionally, your system must be working to prevent damage to the engine or failing an emission test.
Contents
What Is Catalytic Converter?
A catalytic converter is a device fitted in vehicles to convert dangerous gasses into less harmful. In short, it’s emission control device. To effectively convert gasses, these devices utilize a chain of reactions involving reduction and catalysis. Apart from being fitted in automotive, they are also present in other machines which use fossil fuels. In our reviews, we are concentrating much on top 5 best catalytic converters for, Cars, SUV, and trucks.
You can also read other product reviews such as exhaust system, muffler.
5 Best Catalytic Converters - Reviews
Image | Product Name | Fits | Rating | Current Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Walker 16370 Catalytic Converter- Direct Fit | OBDII (1996 and newer) vehicles | 4.4 | |
 | 2. Eastern 70318 Catalytic Converter | All vehicles | 4.2 | |
 | 3. Flowmaster 2230130 223 Series Universal Catalytic Converter | All vehicles | 3.7 | |
 | 4. MagnaFlow 99205HM Universal Catalytic Converter | Any vehicle not older than 1996 | 3.8 | |
 | 5. Walker 15036 Standard Universal Converter | Older cars, before 1995 (pre-OBDII) | 4.1 |
1. Walker 16370 Catalytic Converter- Direct Fit
Editor's Rating: 
(4.4 / 5)
If you have been experiencing collision with emission test agency, it's time to consider replacing your catalytic converter. Not every device will perform as expected; thus you require on from a reputable company. This ultra-premium, Walker 16370 is your perfect selection. Designed to comply with Environmental Protection Agency, it also has a direct fitting thus ideal for every vehicle.
Once you install your vehicle with this gadget, you can be sure of the durability. Walker 16370 is constructed from high –quality stainless steel to ensure it provides a long time of premium services. This means that it can’t easily rust or corrode due to the varying temperatures and, additionally, this material is tolerant to expansions and contractions without compromising system functioning.
Now, when you want to customize your Walker 16370, the process is simple. Unlike other converters on the market, this comes with an adjustable bushing. With ability to be adjustable, it means the gadget can fit in a variety of vehicles including cars, trucks, and SUVs. Additionally, to enable a custom fitting, modifications are possible for perfect fitting.
Walker 16370 Catalytic Converter is backed by 5-year warranty or 50,000 miles structural warranty.
2. Eastern 70318 Catalytic Converter
Editor's Rating: 
(4.2 / 5)
Fitting your SUV or truck Eastern 70318 is one of the surest ways to ensure lowest exhaust gasses emission. Designed by Eastern industries, you can rely on its performance since due to long time expertise. Additionally, fitting it on your exhaust system allows regular engine performance without compromising vehicle operations.
Among many features and benefits which this cat brings the users, versatility is among the best. Now, when we talk about versatility regarding this gadget, we can look it in various angles. One of them is unidirectional fitting. Unlike many catalytic converters available, this one you just need to fit it at any side and will function normally. Additionally, Eastern 70318 is ideal for all vehicles as it doesn’t affect engine performance.
Another essential quality about this cat is the fitted top and bottom heat shields. High temperatures are known to affect how catalytic converters operate. Well, with Eastern 70318 you can bet on its performance regarding the efficiency. To enhance the ability convert dangerous gasses, the device is insulated with heat shields on top and bottom sides. The shielding protects heat protects catalytic converter by absorbing away excess heat and also from shocks.
3. Flowmaster 2230130 223 Series 3-inch Universal Catalytic Converter
Editor's Rating: 
(3.7 / 5)
For anyone who wants to his/her vehicle a roaring power without compromising environmental health, Flowmaster 2230130 223 will do. This universal catalytic converter is designed to deliver extra performance while lowering the emission rate. Additionally, with it, you can be sure of quality, since the gadget is constructed to avoid malfunction indicator code.
When it comes to performance, Flowmaster 2230130 223 is unbeatable. You can install it to any vehicle including older models while maintaining their engine performance. This is unlike other cheaply constructed catalytic chambers which affect vehicle's horsepower. The designing of this gadget concentrates much on enhancing efficient flow of exhaust gasses. With efficient flow, you can be sure of the device to perform as per EPA regulations.
Durability is a key factor which many people consider when buying a catalytic. Further, considering the conditions it endures, it must be tough. With this cat, nothing short than stainless steel which is ideal for resisting corrosion, rust and damages dues to high temperatures. Moreover, Flowmaster 2230130 223 is a highly versatile cat for use in a variety of applications.
4. MagnaFlow 99205HM Universal Catalytic Converter
Editor's Rating: 
(3.8 / 5)
When looking for a catalytic converter, MagnaFlow 99205HM is an ideal consideration to furnish your vehicle with. The gadget is suitable for any vehicle not older than 1996. Therefore, you have no excuse to fail emission test. Further, quality of the cat is a guarantee since it combines high-grade construction materials to resist heat distortion and structural damage.
Regardless of the type of fuel your vehicle, MagnaFlow 99205HM is suitable and will perform excellently. This gadget is designed for utilization by all vehicles whether gas or diesel powered. Additionally, metallic conversion substrate used is effective in scrubbing gasses thereby making ideal for all engines application. Therefore no more hassle as you look for engine specific catalytic converters.
The construction design is enhanced more by reducing the emission of exhaust gasses into the atmosphere. That is why the gadget is EPA compliance; thereby you will never miss an emission test. The general assembling of the device ensures there is complete scrubbing of harmful gasses efficiently. Moreover, the seams are tightly and sturdily welded to make the cat sturdy and reliable, without getting damaged.
5. Walker 15036 Standard Universal Converter
Editor's Rating: 
(4.1 / 5)
Walker is a leading exhaust dealing company which is known for high-quality products. In their line of product Walker 15036 stands out to be a reliable device among the vehicles owners. If you own an older car model, this is the perfect s selection to keep your emission far below the recommend level as well as keeping your vehicle performance to the maximum. In fact, this cat is ideal older cars, before 1995 (pre-OBDII).
Among the many available features in this device is a high performing quality materials. Now, when it comes to cleaning of exhaust gasses, it requires materials capable of working under high temperatures. Therefore, the substrate used is of high efficiency and also ability to catalyze reactions, hence delivering safe and clean exhaust gasses.
When it comes to fitting, Walker 15036 gives you no headache. Whether you want to fit it to your truck, SUV or smaller cars, it’s possible through the adjustable bush. Due to this adjustability, it allows for as universal fitting. In addition, equipped with extra-thick OE flanges, brackets and hangers, you can install it easily. Above all, you can install this unit with confidence as its body features a combination of stainless steel and aluminum.
Types of Catalytic Converters
#1. Diesel Converter
These types of catalytic converters are common in diesel and other compression ignition engines. In most cases, they are efficient and are responsible for reducing s the soot from the exhaust gasses. Further, diesel oxidation catalyst is the most commonly available form of diesel catalytic converters. They utilize oxygen as a catalyst to convert carbon monoxide to less toxic carbon dioxide. As a result, the converter is capable s of eliminating visible carbon particles (soot) as well as diesel odor. However, the catalyst is not active for action on oxides of nitrogen.
#2. Two-Way Converter
Nowadays, two-way converters are mainly in use by diesel engines. Their usage on gas engine was abandoned since 1981 due to inability move oxides of emission from exhaust emissions. The mode of action of theses converters is by use of oxygen to oxidize carbon monoxides to carbon dioxide. Also, oxygen is used toss convert unburned hydrocarbons into carbon dioxide and water. Basically, two-ways converters have two reactions.
#3. Three-way Converters
As the name suggest, these converters undergo a series of three reactions involving reductions and oxidation. They are commonly used in gas powered engines to eliminate harmful gasses. The first reaction involves reduction of oxides of nitrogen into oxygen and nitrogen. The second one is oxidation of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide while the last one is oxidizing unburned hydrocarbons to carbon dioxide.
Factors to Consider When Buying Catalytic Converter
Source: businesslive.co.za
#1. Durability
A catalytic converter should be durable. This is contributed to the design of construction as well materials of construction. When purchasing a converter, you should bear in mind that these gadgets are a bit expensive; hence you should check for one which is long lasting.
#2. Installation Mode
Type of installation is another factor which you should consider before buying a converter. Some of these auto spares are designed to be universally fitting while others aren’t. A universal one is ideal since you can use it with different type of vehicles with little modifications.
#3. Cost
If you want to fix a new converter, their price is also higher. This is especially; if you want to buy the original component from the vehicle manufacturer (OEM). But, to save your pocket, there are still others reliable aftermarket converters; which are of high-quality and offer same performance as original manufacturer components.
#4. Efficiency
Well, for the converter to be efficient, you must select one which I capable of supporting your engine. If your vehicle is an old model, it’s wise to match the converter to avoid compromising the performance. Additionally, if your car is gas-powered, it will call for a different device from that of diesel powered engines.
Conclusion
Catalytic converters as we have seen are essential parts in motor vehicles. They are available in many designs, but the main core is to deliver less toxic exhaust fumes. We have strained to our best to provide the best catalytic converter for your vehicle. However, there are many factors which can affect the overall performance of your gadget such as installation process.
Now, as you plan to replace your aging catalytic converter; ensure you have the best pick to achieve full satisfaction. The above information is a clear guide to obtaining cleaner of your dream and always you will be passing emission tests.
Read More: 5 Best Catalytic Converter Cleaners