P0420 code and aftermarket cat questions

[TFin04]

I've read a bit on here about these but I'm looking for some direct advice.

2002 SR5, 220k miles. I recently purchased the this vehicle and after about 80 miles of me owning it I threw a P0420 code. I've read about new O2 sensor, or adding the plug foulers, or putting in an o2 simulator, or just ignoring it.

Another problem I have is exhaust leaks from the muffler and I just found another one on the pipe connected to my rear catalytic converter right where the mounting post is welded to the pipe. The muffler and remaining pipe needs replaced as well, so I wouldn't mind just using all new stuff rearward of the first cat.

I've read people saying to avoid the cheap(er) aftermarket cats, but haven't really found out why. What's the issue with using something like this after the first cat?

http://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=8719068&cc=1388707&jsn=379

 

[19963.4lsr5]

Fix all your exhaust leaks and then see if the code stays away. There is a thing called reversion that will actually suck air into the exhaust. And if it's anywhere near a O2 sensor it will screw up its reading. I have a new flange from FX to repair the post cat connection on the 97 Puppy Hauler.


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[TFin04]

Fix all your exhaust leaks and then see if the code stays away. There is a thing called reversion that will actually suck air into the exhaust. And if it's anywhere near a O2 sensor it will screw up its reading. I have a new flange from FX to repair the post cat connection on the 97 Puppy Hauler.


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The problem is one of my exhaust leaks is on the pipe with the rear cat, and it's in an area difficult to fix. And the rest of the pipe is rusty as hell and I would just prefer to replace it.

It's cheaper to buy the whole new pipe with aftermarket cat than to pay someone to cut and weld my existing cats onto new pipe, which is why I'm asking about the aftermarket cats.

 

[19963.4lsr5]

The problem is one of my exhaust leaks is on the pipe with the rear cat, and it's in an area difficult to fix. And the rest of the pipe is rusty as hell and I would just prefer to replace it.



It's cheaper to buy the whole new pipe with aftermarket cat than to pay someone to cut and weld my existing cats onto new pipe, which is why I'm asking about the aftermarket cats.

Yea, if you can't do the work yourself that's probably the better way to go. I like the Napa full exhaust I have. Heck it hasn't really started rusting yet either.


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