I have a 87 Cutlass Supreme Brougham V6/3.8L and I live in CA and need to get a CARB certified catalytic converter. Only problem is they cost 800$ on the Magnaflow website (#3322016)and I am a college student with a job that doesnt pay enough. Could I use the EPA Certified cat (#94015) and still pass smog here in California? Is there any actual noticeable difference if I do use the EPA over the CARB catalytic converter during the smog besides the EO number/stamp?

 

Considering California is **** land for emissions, unless it is CARB certified, pretty sure you are screwed. Sucks to own these cars there, especially a 3.8 V6 powered car. Hopefully a cheaper CARB replacement can be found.

 

One of the few times I advocate an eRod LS swap is CA; that's why they were invented.

 

Agree, otherwise that 110 HP turd has to stay in place. Only CARB approved performance parts are allowed, there are none available and probably never were for a NA V6.

 

Have you considered bribing an inspector in the wrong side of town?

 

Would this work?
=ENGINE|3.8L]Walker universal fit CARB cat

 

Yes, unless they require factory style flanges. It could still be done with new parts, but it would need welded together. KA may construe that as tampering; I don't know.

 

Probably the best option!!!

Ill never understand California smog regulations. I’m guessing a 35 year old car makes up a tiny percentage of the vehicles on the road. You have a guy trying to obey the laws regarding converters, and they fight you every step of the way.

I would think any catalytic converter would be better than none.