I don't think many of you are reading the entire post. I am specifically talking about removing the "third" catalytic converter which is located closer to the transfer case. This catalytic converter does not communicate with 02 sensors the way the other two converters do. Anyways, thanks for all the feedback.
The assembly comes with all three catalytic converters. The 3rd cat is bigger than factory, so flows about as well as a pipe would.
You are correct that gutting it won’t throw any codes. In terms of functionality, there aren’t any major changes other than some increased noise and increased emissions. Power output should be nearly identical.
Odds are it probably won’t get caught, but more stations are getting audited and they’re going to greater lengths to shield themselves from the liability of being caught passing a vehicle that has been tampered with. Most stations aren’t going to report you to the EPA or your state DEP but they may blacklist you as a customer.
Usually the way the audits work is they recruit people with somewhat customized cars, put an illegal mod on it, and then pay them to take it to a service station. If the station finds the problem and reports it, they pass. If they don’t report it, but don’t pass the customer and kick them out, it’s usually just a small penalty. If they outright pass the car, they often face severe civil and even criminal penalties. Usually the bust is big enough to make the local news.
The audits aren’t just for emissions but also for illegal safety modifications. I.e., tires that stick out past the fender, bumpers above/below the legal height, too much tint, Carolina squat, etc.
