I got a quote from an exhaust shop for $100-$120 to remove both catalytic converters and have a test pipe put in their place. I figured this was about how much it would cost, 2 hours of labor at $60/hour. I'm curious though to see how much other people had the job done for just to make sure I'm not getting ripped.

 

most people just buy an o/r pipe. They usually cost around 175. I would o this route if you could, just because them putting in that extra pipe could lead to exhaust leaks. not only that, you can keep your stock mid pipe in case you ever have to switch it back.

 

I could but I figured it would be cheaper to go this route. Cutting the cats would already give me an O/R H-Pipe.

 

I agree with buying another pipe. Check the classifieds and craigslist. You'll see them in great condition for $100-150.

 

Alright, I'll take a look at them.

 

just out of curiousity how much does removing the cat improve performance/unrestrict exhaust flow?

 

probably under 10rwhp peak, but it's under the curve that matters. My car has much better pull mid-top end but I also added long tubes which is where the bigger gains are.

 

I have 02 GT and i have 2 sets of stock cats with aftermarket xpipe and straight pipes after X. So my question is, can i remove just 1 set of cats and keep another for inspections ? what else do i need to remove cats ? like what kind of piping ? if i remove cats do i need a retune, will the car be louder ?

 

It will be louder and a little raspy. Also you could cut the cats out and just put a straight pipe in. You will need to turn off the rear O2's in the tune or use MIL eliminators.

 

...and still retain the front O2 sensors in their far up-front positions!