Catalytic converters are among the most important components on cars that operate with fuel injection. Without them, an automobile will never meet the requirements of a specific state’s emission laws.
High flow catalytic converters allow automotive engineers to tune a car according to performance and engine characteristics. There are many things to think about when thinking about going with high-flow catalytic converters. From the appearance and sound to the performance, there are pros and cons for both sides.
Do High-Flow Cats Make a Difference?
High flow catalytic converters are a great upgrade for your vehicle. Because they don’t have the same restrictive nature as stock catalytic converters, they allow exhaust gases to flow more freely.
This can help boost horsepower and improve fuel economy. If you’re looking to improve the performance of your vehicle, a high-flow cat could be just what you need.
High flow cats vs. Stock cats
In order to understand how a high flow cat works, it’s important to first understand how a stock catalytic converter works.
Catalytic converters are installed in the exhaust system and their main purpose is to reduce the harmful emissions that result from combustion in the engine. In order to do this, they reduce the hydrogen and carbon monoxide found in exhaust fumes and turn them into water vapor and carbon dioxide.
It’s a necessary part of modern vehicles, but they can slow down the velocity of exhaust gases due to their restrictive nature.
High Flow Catalytic Converter Pros
Airflow to the Exhaust is Improved = More Power
The catalytic converter’s job is to convert carbon monoxide into less harmful gases, but it can really slow down the car’s performance when it starts getting clogged up with dirt and debris.
A high flow catalytic converter will allow more air to exit the exhaust system, meaning there’s more room for new air to enter. When all this airflow improves, so does your horsepower.
Improved Fuel Economy
If you’re looking for ways to reduce your fuel consumption, installing a high-flow catalytic converter can help you achieve that goal.
When your engine is running better because of improved airflow and horsepower, it will burn less gas. This means fewer stops at the gas station and more savings in your pocket from not having to fill up as often.
Affordable
If you’re worried about how much installing a high flow catalytic converter is going to cost, rest assured that it’s very affordable compared to buying a new stock catalytic converter
High Flow Cats Cons
Many people get high-flow catalytic converters for their cars to improve their performance. But there are some disadvantages that you should know about before getting it installed.
Can Trigger Check Engine Light
The catalyst in the converter will trigger a check engine light if it is not functioning properly and needs to be replaced. Also, if you have a bad oxygen sensor, it can trigger the check engine light as well
Exhaust Odor
You may smell an exhaust odor while driving your car in low gear or at a low speed. The reason is that the catalytic converter gets too hot and starts burning fuel inside it, which results in a smell of exhaust.
Exhaust Sound
A high-flow catalytic converter can modify the sound of your car’s exhaust system, making it loud and raspy. This depends on how big your muffler is and what type of pipes you have in your vehicle.
Are High Flow Catalytic Converters Worth it?
There are a lot of people who want to make their cars sound louder or go faster. If you’re one of those people, then you’ve probably heard of “high-flow cats” or just “high-flow cats.” They’re extremely popular, but are they worth it?
The answer is a resounding “yes.” High-flow cats don’t cost a lot more than regular cats, and they do a lot more than the standard cat. They allow your engine to move more air, which means it produces more power.
And because they’re lighter and larger than standard cats, high-flow cats also help reduce your car’s weight, which can make it feel more nimble. In short, high-flow cats are worth the money for anyone who wants to make their car sound louder or go faster.
Robert Anderson is a world class motorhead who rebuilt his first carb at age 10, his first engine at age 15, and completed his first full hotrod build when he was just 18! Previously, he has ran a part warehouse, delivered pizzas, and managed the service department for a $20 million/year revenue dealership. Robert knows cars like few others and he is passionate about sharing his knowledge.
