In simplest terms, a converters unlimited shares a similar size and shape to a small muffler in your exhaust and lives in the exhaust system just like a muffler. In some ways, it also helps to mute exhaust sounds, but that’s not its purpose. converters unlimited were first introduced in the mid-1970’s as a way to contain and help fully combust and convert items within the exhaust that prior to those times, were simply exiting into the atmosphere.
A converter is composed of a metal can, much like a muffler. Inside that can is a metallic honeycomb element that works to convert these hot exhaust gases into items that are less harmful to the environment as they move through the exhaust and out into the air. In cars built after 1995, a downstream oxygen sensor helps to monitor and make sure the converter is performing properly.
Over time, a converters unlimited can lead a rough life to failure. In Northern climates, salt spray and rust can lead to a complete corrosion of the body of the converter, and because of that, many now are made from stainless steel. This failure causes a massive exhaust leak, where many times one of the connecting flanges fails, giving you a complete exhaust leak and waking up every neighbor in your neighborhood when you start your car in the morning! On the inside, the honeycomb material can break down and fracture, causing a knocking or rattling sound from within the exhaust. This material can also become clogged and contaminated with soot, burned oil or antifreeze, and eventually cause a massive exhaust restriction or complete blockage. In all of these cases, a new converters unlimited will be needed, and often times, a Check Engine Light will accompany this.
TYPES OF converters unlimited
There are a few fitment options when it comes to converters unlimited:
- These are built for your specific year, make, and model of vehicle for easy installation.
- These are not built for a specific vehicle, so they’re a little more work to install.
There are also a few options as far as performance goes:
- Federal: These devices function according to the specifications laid out by the Federal Government and meet emissions standards in most states.
- California or CARB: These devices are built to meet the more stringent emissions standards laid out by the California Air Resources Board (CARB). These are needed in California and a few other states including New York, Colorado, and Maine.
Make sure to get a converters unlimited that meets your state’s emissions guidelines, otherwise you won’t pass emissions.