1975 catalytic convertor

[Daniel H.]

Hi, I am restoring a 1975 and was wondering what the options are when it comes to replacing the catalytic convertor. I searched for one that would replace the original, but, I could only find replacements that will fit and work but are built with a different shape. My question is if you are trying to restore a car but the parts are no longer available how do the Judges view this? Will it be accepted or will it decrease points awarded?


Thanks,
Danny

[Russ S.]

Re: 1975 catalytic convertor

It will be a deduct. It's a long shot but have you tried GM parts for it?

[Clark K.]

Re: 1975 catalytic convertor

You have experienced something that is of concern for every car collector: finding correct parts to replace missing or worn out parts. I have a '65 Corvette and finding the correct rubber wiper blades with the tiny dots, is almost impossible. Finding the correct tires is almost impossible. All the tires made after a certain date have DOT numbers so there is a deduction for this.

What you may wish to do is search the ads in Hemmings Motor News. There are a bunch of collectors who use that magazine's ads to buy and sell old parts. I believe that the catalytic converter that you are referencing was standard on all the V8 GM cars made that year. Since many people who bought these cars new removed the catalytic convertor, there are probably a bunch still around, stuck in the back of garages, collecting dust. I have the original from my '75 Chevy but its not for sale.
-Clark

[Joe L.]

Re: 1975 catalytic convertor

It will be a deduct. It's a long shot but have you tried GM parts for it?

Russ and Danny-----


It's long-since GM-discontinued and I don't think you'll find one in any dealer stock.

Something you might try: call an outfit called Kansas City Converter. They are a major rebuilder of catalytic converters and they may have in stock what you need. If so, you'll have to pay a core charge but that shouldn't bother you.

[Michael W.]

Re: 1975 catalytic convertor

My question is if you are trying to restore a car but the parts are no longer available how do the Judges view this? Will it be accepted or will it decrease points awarded?


Thanks,
Danny

Danny, the rules are pretty much consistent across the board. The 'bulls eye' is to preserve of restore a car to 'as new' config and appearance. If you end up missing the bulls eye, the closer you get the better or conversely the further away the worse the score. In other words it's not an all or nothing type of event. There's thousands of OEM parts that are no longer available and are not (yet) available in repro.

Part of the fun is trying to find a part that's as close to the original as possible, or restoring the OEM piece. Have a look at the judging sheets to see how many points are allocated to this component. This should guide you as to how much of your budget you wish to allocate.

[Paul J.]

Re: 1975 catalytic convertor

Hi Danny, welcome to the forum. You did not mention whether or not you still have the original converter. If you don't you may be able to find one of the right configuration in one of the big PA junkyards up your way. There are other junkyards too, and I can help you with these if you run into a dead end. Remember that the exhaust systems on junkyard cars take a beating. After you have found the right one, check with your State DMV and see if they are still concerned with cats on 37 year old cars (removing the cat was a $10,000 maximum fine in '75). If there isn't a concern (or if you wish to do it anyway), drop your beads and refinsh the outside. I'm not sure if it was galvanized but there are paints that you can use to simulate the right finish.

To drop your beads, carefully remove plug in the bottom and shake vigorously, or if it's on the car just drive it with the plug off. When dropping your beads remember, "Should you be captured or killed, the Secretary will disavow any knowledge of your actions".

Paul