Usually if they are bolted on the bolts are so rusty they will just break off. I use a sawzall to make a cut in front and back of the cat. Then the easiest way is to use clamps to install the new one.
SOURCE: replace a catalytic converter for a 1999 dodge stratus
The cat is located just off of the exhaust manifold. You have to remove things to get out of the way. Loosen down pipe to converter and unclamp the converter and it should pull right out. Use a good penetrating oil to help loosen the down pipe bolts.
SOURCE: how to replace/remove both catalytic converters
Below are the steps needed to remove the catalytic converters. You may be able to first remove the band clamp from between the converter and the exhaust manifold, then loosen the rest of the system and to get enough clearance to slide the converter towards the front of the vehicle but you will need to first remove the clamp that holds the converter to the rest of the exhaust. Hope this helps
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Both Catalytic Convertors
First you need to raise the vehicle.
Next, you need to pry the insulators from the support brackets and support the muffler and tailpipe with jackstands.
Then, loosen the the catalytic converter down pipe-to-front resonator clamps and separate the front resonator from the converter down-pipes. Carefully lay the free laying exhaust on the ground.
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Right Catalytic Converter
Then, remove the down-pipe-to-transaxle bracket nut, loosen the clamp and separate the extension pipe from the converter.
Next lower the vehicle and remove the air filter and intake ducts. Disconnect the wiring harness for the O2 sensor and the remove the sensor.
Finally loosen the band clamp at the exhaust manifold and remove the converter from the engine compartment. You may need to replace these clamps after removal because you need to pry it apart and they will leak when you reinstall.
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Left Catalytic Converter
Now disconnect the wiring harness for the O2 sensor and the remove the sensor.
Next remove the down-pipe-to-transaxle bracket nut
Finally loosen the band clamp at the exhaust manifold and remove the converter from the engine compartment.
SOURCE: 2004 dodge durango - catalytic converter issue
It has to be welded on. Universal cat is about $250-$350 installed.
SOURCE: catalytic converter
The short answer is NO... It's not like changing a muffler in the "good old days". They are welded in and need to be cut out then rewelded, etc... not an easy job unless you have access to shop tools.
Can I ask WHY you need to change the converter??? They usually last as long as the car. I recntly sold a 1998 Olds with 245,000 miles on it and it had the original converter intact.
Good Luck
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SOURCE: Are there 3 catalytic converters in a 2004 Dodge
no there are 3 ,two precats and one main.the scan tool and the codes retrieved should tell wich cat is bad i dought all of them are.
Testimonial: "That clears up the information I was getting...thank you very much."
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