Need help/advice with my catalytic converter issue

[preacher35]

So, I need to get my Runner (1GR-FE, 130k on the clock) inspected, here in Texas but my CEL is coming on. I took it to my friendly neighborhood mechanic (whom I completely trust) and he stated that one of my cats is shot and needs to be replaced. I regret that I did not get the exact code, (which I will get tomorrow), but I know that this could actually be a couple of different things, aside from a bad cat. What I need to know is the following:

1. is the "up-stream" O2 sensor the one BEFORE the cat and the "down-stream" after the cat?

2. Is the bank 1 the driver side and the bank 2 the passenger?

3. How difficult is it to replace either "up-stream" and/or "down-stream" o2 sensors?

4. Worse case scenario, how difficult is it to replace the catalytic converter (assuming that only one needs to be replaced)? I'm pretty good at doing my own repairs (I installed all of my suspension and cat back myself).

As usual, I appreciate all advice/help!

Thanks,
Preacher

 

[lbhsbz]

Upstream is before the cat, downstream is after.

B1 is passenger side

 

[dta1984]

I've replaced both of my downstream 02 sensors and they are relatively straight forward to do. Located approximately below the front driver seat and passenger seat for bank 1. I've found using a wrench is easier for these vs using the 02 sensor sockets that you can buy.

Can't confirm, but I believe the upstream sensors are accessed through the front wheel wells behind the liner.

 

[preacher35]

OK, so I had the code run again and came up as P0430 (bank 2 catalytic converter). I went ahead and replaced my driver side downstream O2 sensor, disconnected the batter to reset ECM and drove the rig 105 miles. CEL light has NOT come back on. Going to get the inspection done in the morning. It's looking like that was indeed the issue and am praying that all goes well and it passes. Anyway, hope this helps someone in the future.


Preacher