Best Catalytic Converter for Turbo Cars

Have you ever wondered what the best catalytic converter for turbo cars might be? A war on emissions has been declared for the best part of four decades with the government coming down very hard on the automotive industry. 

During the ’70s, the United States government imposed a law that states “every vehicle manufactured from that particular year onward must be fitted with gimmick known as a catalytic converter”.

And this gimmick soon became a global phenomenon and is now a staple of emissions control in the world of cars. It is presently integrated into almost every modern exhaust system.

What is a Catalytic Converter?

A Catalytic converter – otherwise referred to as a high-flow catalytic converter in some quarters – is a device that helps to improve the performance of a vehicle without affecting emissions output. 

Since we live in an environmentally-conscious world, catalytic converters are a must-have if we want to protect this planet. 

Car lovers, however, need to find innovative ways to boost their horsepower in order to pass emissions tests each year. 

In this article, you will learn about catalytic converters and the top 3 catalytic converters you can purchase to enhance your horsepower without breaking the law.

The Function of Catalytic Converter For Turbo Cars

A catalytic converter should be part of a vehicle’s emissions control systems. The gas emitted from your car engine is loaded with harmful chemicals like nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons. These toxic products are one of the reasons why most of these catalytic converters are known as 3-way catalytic converters.

These chemicals pollute the air and make it un-breathable, sometimes causing severe health complications or even death if ingested in excess.

The primary function of the catalytic converter, therefore, is to minimize the emission of these dangerous or toxic chemicals – due to the naturally-imperfect combustion process of the engine – as much as possible in order to protect the environment. 

How the Catalytic Converter For Turbo Cars Works

The converter for turbo cars works by forcing exhaust gases to come into contact with a catalyst. A catalyst is a substance that speeds up the rate of a chemical reaction. 

In the case of catalytic converters, two metals – i.e. platinum or palladium – can serve as the catalyst. This catalyst converts the exhaust gasses into less harmful constituents like carbon dioxide and water. 

This occurs via the oxidization of burning of the hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide that lingers within the incoming gas.

To ensure that the exhaust does not come in direct contact with the catalyst, the converter comes with a ceramic honeycomb that is coated with the metal serving as a catalyst. The honeycomb allows exhaust gases to flow through and out of the pipe to the environment. 

Performance changes to the exhaust system generally boost the flow capability in order to enable the engine to breathe more easily, thereby allowing it to get even more power. 

The faster the catalytic converter completes its task, the higher the flow capability.

There is a significant increase in flow rate as soon as you increase the overall cross-section of the honeycomb.

The catalytic converter also widens the passages in order to facilitate the free flow of exhaust gases. 

Models that come with bigger cross-sections will have to be designed to fit specific spaces on certain automobiles. And designs with much bigger passages must contain more catalyst substance to speed up the reaction.

The most crucial thing about this device is that it cannot sacrifice efficacy for more extraordinary performance or else the environment will be the worse for wear.

This is why it is usually recommended that you purchase a catalytic converter for turbo cars from a reliable source that adheres to the emission laws in your state of residence. 

You can ask for assistance from an emissions repair shop in your neighborhood or locality to help you select the most effective and legal one.

Bear in mind that although it is quite fun to go very fast on the road, keeping the whole environment protected against harmful substances like smog, etc. should be your #1 priority and everyone’s responsibility at all times.

Symptoms of a Clogged Catalytic Converter for Turbo Cars

Over time, a catalytic converter may get clogged and will require de-clogging or a replacement. Here are some of the signs to take note of: 

• Loss of power when revving up slopes
• Increase in fuel consumption by 1.5 liters per 100 km
• Refusal of the engine to rev up and beyond 3,000 revolutions per minute (rpm)
• The engine maintains an excellent torque when you drive slowly even when climbing. This is generally noticeable at the onset of the clogging of a catalytic converter
• Upon a forceful attempt at acceleration, the ECU, in turn, forces the turbo wastegate valve to remain open

Causes of a Plugged (Clogged) Catalytic Converter

Many factors can cause a catalytic converter to become clogged. No vehicle is perfect, so expect less performing sensors, oil consumption, etc., to cut back its lifespan. Additives and fuel can also cause the clogging of a catalytic converter as these lead to a slow buildup of several coatings on the catalyst.

Traffic jams also inhibit the breathing of engines even as combustion is generally not at its best at such times.

Top 3 High Catalytic Converter For Turbo Cars

In this section, the best three high-flow catalytic converters will be discussed. Knowing a few details about each of them along with their pros and cons will aid you in making a better buying decision when the time comes for you to purchase your catalytic converter.

Without further ado, here they are in no particular order:

#1: Universal Catalytic Converter 425250 Series Direct Fit 2.5 inches W/O2 Nut

The Universal Catalytic Converter 425250 Series comes with an inlet and outlet that is not more than 2.5 inches. However, it is vital to confirm the size of this catalytic converter in order to determine whether it fits your automobile or not. 

It is generally recommended for cars manufactured before 1998, so if your vehicle falls within this range, then this catalytic converter is the perfect choice for you.

However, if your automobile was manufactured way beyond 1998, you may have to go for another option such as the O2 Port Round Body length of 4 inches and its overall length, not more than 11 inches.

The features of the Universal Catalytic Converter 425250 are unique and exceptional. This type, which is an ECO II inlet, comes with a 2.5-inch substrate and 2.5 Outlet type. The catalytic converter has a 400-cell ceramic and 6,000-pound test weight. The engine limit for this unit is 5.9 liters. 

The Universal Catalytic Converter 425250 is carefully fabricated, and its upgraded quality makes it highly convenient for users who need a product that significantly reduces catalyst in order to do away with nitrogen oxide. 

Users will also be happy with the manufacturer’s 50,000-mile defect undertaking this product comes with.

Advantages of the Universal Catalytic Converter 425250

• Safe and highly durable
• Affordable
• Highly compatible with automobiles manufactured before 1998
• Nicely fabricated and manufactured well
• Significantly reduces corrosion
• Lightweight and slim profile
• Exhaust smells and sounds much better

Disadvantages of the Universal Catalytic Converter 425250

• Not ideal for every vehicle
• It doesn’t comply with the emission test in California, so it is not allowed in the Golden State

Should You Consider Purchasing the Universal Catalytic Converter 425250 Series?

The Universal Catalytic Converter 425250 Series has received lots of positive feedback and reviews from users. Many of the reviews commended how well the catalytic converter was fabricated. 

It is lightweight, and its slim profile and seamless welding despite it being constructed of stainless steel, make the catalytic converter a favorite among professional mechanics. 

The Universal Catalytic Converter 425250 Series is well made and one of the most durable products on the market today. If you are living in California, you may have to look for another option.

But if not, then the Universal Catalytic Converter 425250 Series is the perfect choice for you, especially if you own a vehicle manufactured before 1998.

#2: Universal Catalytic Converter 410250 High Flow Direct Fit Stainless Steel

The Universal Catalytic Converter 410250 High Flow is a 2.5-inch, high-quality T409 stainless steel 3-way catalytic converter that is capable of cleaning up polluting gases. 

This product minimizes corrosion and significantly enhances the fuel conversion rate.

The Universal Catalytic Converter 410250 Series has a total length of 11 inches with a 2.5-inch inlet and 2.5-inch outlet diameter respectively.  This ECO II catalytic converter is compatible with engines up to 5.9 liters. 

It comes with 50,000 miles Structural Integrity Warranty or 5 years and tests weight up to 6,000 pounds.

Advantages of the Universal Catalytic Converter 410250 Series

• Highly durable
• Welds firmly together
• Constructed of high-quality stainless steel
• Helps in regaining the car’s power
• Affordable
• Significantly improves fuel conversion and minimizes corrosion

Disadvantages of the Universe Catalytic Converter 410250 Series

• The exhaust is somewhat too quiet for the liking of some drivers 
• The converter is limited by its single-pass design and high flow resistance.
• The installation process is more complicated than with other converters that use a bolted flange design

Should You Consider Buying the Universal Catalytic Converter for turbo cars 410250 Series?

Two words that were frequently mentioned in the numerous positive reviews are ‘Easy installation.’ According to a wide variety of users, this catalytic converter fits their various brands of vehicles remarkably well.  

The #1 reason why many car users love the Universal Catalytic Converter 410250 Series is how great it is when welded, whether it is performed by a professional or you do it yourself. But if you are looking for a loud exhaust system, this product is not for you.

#3: Flowmaster 2230130 223 Series

Flowmaster 2230130223 Series is also one of the top-notch US-made high-flow catalytic converters in the market today. 

This high-grade catalytic converter has extraordinary flow characteristics. It comes with stainless steel construction for exceptional durability and its internal substrate as well as the metal loading is carefully designed for maximum efficiency. 

The Flowmaster 2230130223 Series is also designed in such a way to prevent code issues related to the Malfunction Indicator Lamp which is a common occurrence in low-quality catalytic converters. 

Universal catalytic converters require welding or fabrication and need to be installed by authorized technicians. 

The Flowmaster 223013023 Series is carefully fabricated to suit 5,500-pound vehicles that come with an engine size of about 5.9 liters. 

Advantages of the Flowmaster 2230130223

• Designed to keep off the Malfunction Indicator Lamp
• The product is constructed using stainless steel
• It can be used for diverse applications
• It is fabricated to fit most automobiles
• Meets the federal emission requirements of the EPA

Disadvantages of the Flowmaster 2230130223

• This product is not for sale to residents in California
• The Flowmaster 2230130223 muffler is louder than other mufflers in its price range.
• The Flowmaster 2230130223 muffler may not be ideal for vehicles with low torque.
• Because of its size and shape, the Flowmaster 2230130223 muffler can be difficult to install on some vehicles.
• Some users have complained about uneven performance with the Flowmaster 2230130223 muffler.

Should You Consider Buying the Flowmaster 2230130223 Series?

Although this particular product is not sold in the Golden State – i.e. California – it has several raving reviews for the Flowmaster catalytic converter due to its high quality. 

It has worked for sports cars and even large automobiles as well. Many users appreciate its size and the way it fits the right spots.

If you have a relatively small vehicle, then you should consider purchasing the Flowmaster 2230130223 Series. But if you need a much larger catalytic converter, you may have to opt for any of the other two products discussed earlier. 

Catalytic Converter For Turbo cars FAQs

Does every vehicle have a catalytic converter?

No, not every vehicle has a catalytic converter. In order for a catalytic converter to be effective, the vehicle must be equipped with catalytic converters.

If you have ever changed a headlight or windshield wiper fluid in a vehicle, you may have noticed that the fluid contains a chemical called catalyst. Catalytic converters are small composites that are installed in exhaust pipes and catalytic converters in vehicles to reduce pollution emissions and prevent engine damage due to excessive temperatures.

The main benefit of having a catalytic converter for turbo cars is that it greatly reduces the number of harmful pollutants released into the atmosphere when the vehicle is operating. If your vehicle does not have one, it may be worth the investment to replace it with one that will greatly reduce your vehicle’s emissions and protect its engine from overheating.

What year cars have catalytic converters?

Each car manufactured after December 1, 1987, has a catalytic converter that must be removed to change the gauge setting on the air conditioning system. The air conditioning system gauge has a catalytic converter attached that limits the number of contaminants and harmful gases being inhaled by the car’s occupants.

If you change your car’s catalytic converter before December 1, 2010, there is no need to remove it to change the gauge set. The gauge will still be set correctly because the air conditioning system is affected by only one element in fewer units.

• The 1991-1995 Honda Accord and 1991-1995 Acura Legend are equipped with catalytic converters that reduce the number of pollutants released by engine exhaust. 
• The 2011 Honda Civic is equipped with a catalytic converter (included on all pre-2011 models).
• The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is equipped with a catalytic converter (included on all pre-2010 models)

What does a catalytic converter do in a car?

A catalytic converter is a device that converts pollutants produced by combustion into fewer but more toxic substances. The catalytic converter works by acting as a sort of catalyst, forcing the pollutants to turn into less harmful compounds.

The benefits of using catalytic converters are numerous. They reduce the number of pollutants that are emitted into the atmosphere, and they also reduce the amount of oil being used by the engine. Additionally, they can help to reduce the amount of pollution being released into the atmosphere, which can have a positive impact on both your health and the health of your ecosystem.

Can I drive my car without a catalytic converter?

Yes, you can drive your car without a catalytic converter.

Fully functioning catalytic convertors reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by reducing the number of combustion reactions that release nitrogen into the air. The reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions allows your vehicle to run quieter and more efficiently.

A catalytic converter is a highly efficient device that creates nitrogen oxides by combining oxygen with molecules in the exhaust stream. The chemical reaction that occurs within the converter converts nitrogen into water and element, which can be released into the atmosphere as a gas pollutant.

On vehicles that have catalytic converters, the conversion process occurs at such a high temperature and pressure that little or no oxygen is present. Therefore, they are not affected by weather conditions, as they would be on a car driven normally.

Conclusion 

Of the 3 catalytic converters mentioned here, the one that received the most favorable reviews is the Universal Catalytic Converter 410250 High Flow Direct Fit Stainless Steel. 

It is an excellent choice mostly because it is well fabricated with stainless steel, welds and installs easily, and fits most brands of cars out there without any discrimination. 

It can also be purchased by anyone, irrespective of your state of residence as it meets the emissions requirement. Its only drawback is that the catalytic converter is somewhat too quiet for some car users.  

Make sure it perfectly fits your car before you shell out your hard-earned money. Your car maintenance schedule should also be followed religiously.

The other 2 catalytic converters cannot be used by anyone living in California because they do not meet the Golden State’s emissions criteria or rules. 

The 3 catalytic converters can boost the performance of your vehicle tremendously while ensuring the emissions are kept incredibly low in order to pass the emissions test.

As long as you know the features you are looking for in a specific catalytic converter, getting any of the 3 outlined in this article is a no-brainer. 

On a final note, all vehicles at every power level should come fitted with a functional catalytic converter for turbo cars. This is something every responsible car owner should do.