I recently switched out my exhaust Y-pipe (catalytic converters) and wanted to share my experience.

A few months ago, I developed a nasty exhaust leak at the factory weld on the y-pipe flange; where it bolts to the passenger side exhaust manifold.

Initially, I removed the pipe and attempted to re-weld (used a mig-welder) the existing factory weld. It was a PIA because of the location and proximity of the manifold stud holes. However, I laid a nice bead around the flange and reassembled the Y-pipe. It lasted for a few months then started leaking again.

I started searching around for used Y-Pipes, I found some, but wasn't willing to gamble and pay big bucks for used cats. I took my search to Ebay and found a brand new "Non-OEM" assembly manufactured by Davico sold by someone DBA greasesquad2. I paid $355 which included free shipping. Not bad in my opinion. My transaction w/ greasesquad2 was smooth, fast shipping w/ tracking.

The Y-pipe arrived within 6 business days and bolted right up w/ ZERO issues. However, the Davico cats are about one third to one half the size of OEM's. But, that was expected. You get what you pay for.

Performance is top notch, a little louder than stock since the cats are smaller = more exhaust flow! I can not fully remark on exactly how much louder the truck sounds because I recently removed the rear resonator and added a down turn tip. IMO, it sounds great! To date I'm very happy with the way this all turned out.

I'll try to get a video link posted here to Youtube so, you can hear my exhaust note. BTW, I have zero exhaust drone.

Forgot to mention. At cold start-up the truck is loud. You can hear the V8 come to life. But quickly as it warms up (with in 30 seconds or so) it becomes a subtle angry rumble.

Here's a pic of the Y-pipe.

 

That sounds like a great deal!
There is also magnaflow direct replacement y-pipe that is sometimes available for close to that price range. Its' about $379 on amazon right now.

 

Here's a short video clip. It sounds a little raspier and hollow on video.

 

I do not know why but I cannot get a socket on the passenger side front bolt from the new y pipe to the exhaust manifold. It seems that after the flange the pipe spreads back out to circular to fast and I am unable to get a socket up there. and since the engine mount is right there I am unable to get a open or closed end wrench around it. Does anyone have ideas of what to do? I cannot start the vehicle do to the huge exhaust leak with the y-pipe and exhaust manifold not seated together.

 

That's sounds pretty good to me. Healthy sound.. How is it driving?

I'll also say that I have the same issue.. on the drivers side. PO had it re welded and It leaks from there again. I plan on replacing the whole damn thing stem to stern. All the flanges look like hell.

 

I'm not sure which bolt you're referring too. Post a pic. I had my Y-pipe off numerous times and never had a problem removing or re-installing the bolts.

 

Sounds like you may need to hammer the pipe in a bit to make enough room.

 

Very soon I need to do this same repair....cracked flanges. So everyones welds are not holding up? I wanted to weld mine up....not sure if I will be waisting my time now? I also dont want to spend 400 bucks..

 

I'm 9 by replacing the cats and y pipe for piece of mind. 02 sensors as well. Seems that the flange to the manifolds don't stand the absolute test of time. Mine had been fixed before. I'm just gonna go all magnaflow.

 

I just ordered a new Davidco y-pipe after reading this thread. My drivers side cat has a pretty nasty exhaust leak from behind the heat shield that has been getting worse lately.

The manifold to y-pipe studs and nuts are in good shape, (I have removed them before with no issues.) however the bolts that hold the y-pipe to the intermediate muffler are rusted badly and I see myself using a Sawzall to get them off. Does anybody know what size bolts these are?