How to Remove a Catalytic Converter from a Subaru Legacy 2017 Without a Title
Removing a catalytic converter from any vehicle, especially without a title, can be a complicated and time-consuming process. However, with the right tools and a little know-how, it is possible to do it yourself. This article will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to remove the catalytic converter from a Subaru Legacy 2017 without a title.
Before you start, it is important to note that removing a catalytic converter without a title is illegal in most states. If you are caught doing so, you could face fines or even jail time. Therefore, it is crucial to only attempt this procedure if you have a valid title for your vehicle. Additionally, it is important to take safety precautions when working on your vehicle, such as wearing gloves and safety glasses.
To begin, you will need to locate the catalytic converter on your Subaru Legacy 2017. The catalytic converter is typically located under the vehicle, near the exhaust manifold. Once you have located the catalytic converter, you will need to disconnect the oxygen sensors that are connected to it. The oxygen sensors are typically located on the upstream and downstream sides of the catalytic converter. Once the oxygen sensors are disconnected, you will need to remove the bolts that are holding the catalytic converter in place. The bolts are typically located on the flanges that connect the catalytic converter to the exhaust manifold and the exhaust pipe. Once the bolts are removed, you will be able to remove the catalytic converter from your vehicle.
Identifying the Catalytic Converter Location
The catalytic converter in a Subaru Legacy is responsible for reducing harmful emissions by converting pollutants in the exhaust into less-toxic substances. Knowing its location is crucial for maintenance or replacement. Here’s a detailed guide to help you identify the catalytic converter in your 2017 Subaru Legacy:
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Allow the engine to cool down thoroughly before proceeding.
- Locate the exhaust pipe: Follow the exhaust pipe from the engine towards the rear of the vehicle. The catalytic converter is usually positioned between the exhaust manifold and the muffler.
- Identify the bulge in the exhaust pipe: The catalytic converter is typically housed within a cylindrical or oval-shaped bulge in the exhaust pipe. This bulge can range in size from 6 to 12 inches long and 4 to 6 inches in diameter.
- Check for the presence of heat shields: Catalytic converters often have heat shields wrapped around them to protect surrounding components from excessive heat. Look for metal shields covering the bulge in the exhaust pipe.
- Inspect the converter for markings: Some catalytic converters have markings etched onto their surface, such as “CAT” or “Catalytic Converter.” These markings can help confirm the component’s identity.
Disconnecting the Negative Battery Terminal
1. Safety Precautions
Before embarking on any electrical work, it’s imperative to prioritize safety. Ensure that the engine is turned off and allow it to cool. Wear protective gloves, eyewear, and appropriate clothing to safeguard yourself against potential hazards.
2. Locate the Battery
Locate the battery under the hood of your Subaru Legacy 2017. It’s typically situated towards the front of the vehicle on the driver’s side. Look for a black or gray box with two large metal terminals, one positive (+) and one negative (-).
3. Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal
Use a 10mm socket wrench or combination wrench to loosen the nut securing the negative battery terminal. Do not remove the nut completely at this stage. Turn it counterclockwise until it’s loose enough to lift the terminal off the battery post.
Caution: Do not touch the positive (+) terminal with any tools or conductors while the negative terminal is disconnected. This can create a short circuit, leading to severe damage to the electrical system.
Carefully lift the negative terminal off the battery post and secure it away from the positive terminal using a zip tie or a piece of tape. This will prevent accidental contact and ensure that the negative terminal does not come into contact with metal surfaces, reducing the risk of short circuits.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| 10mm Socket Wrench or Combination Wrench | Used to loosen the nut securing the negative battery terminal |
| Zip Tie or Tape | Used to secure the negative terminal away from the positive terminal |
Detaching the Oxygen Sensors
Oxygen sensors monitor the oxygen content in the exhaust gases and provide feedback to the engine control module (ECM) to adjust the air-fuel mixture. To detach the oxygen sensors from the Subaru Legacy 2017, follow these detailed steps:
- Locate the oxygen sensors on the exhaust manifold or exhaust pipe. There are usually two oxygen sensors, one upstream and one downstream of the catalytic converter.
- Clean any dirt or debris around the oxygen sensors using a wire brush or compressed air.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors from the oxygen sensors by pressing down on the release tab and pulling them straight out.
- Use an oxygen sensor wrench or a 22mm open-end wrench to loosen the oxygen sensor from the exhaust manifold or pipe. Be careful not to overtighten the wrench, as this can damage the oxygen sensor.
- Pull out the oxygen sensor from the exhaust manifold or pipe.
**Caution:** Do not pull on the electrical wires when detaching the oxygen sensors. This can damage the wires and affect the performance of the oxygen sensors. - Inspect the oxygen sensor for any signs of damage or contamination. If the sensor appears damaged, replace it with a new one.
- Using a wrench, carefully loosen the nuts and bolts that secure the mounting brackets to the catalytic converter.
- Once the nuts and bolts are loose, gently pry the mounting brackets away from the catalytic converter using a flat-head screwdriver or pry bar.
- Disconnect any electrical wires or sensors that may be connected to the mounting brackets.
- Remove the mounting brackets from the vehicle.
- Inspect the mounting brackets for any damage or corrosion. If any damage is found, replace the mounting brackets before reinstalling the catalytic converter.
- Lubricate the bolts and nuts with an anti-seize compound to prevent them from seizing in the future.
- Wear safety glasses and earplugs while cutting.
- Support the exhaust pipe to prevent it from falling.
- Use a sharp blade for a clean cut.
- Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Allow the engine to cool completely to prevent burns.
- Wear gloves and eye protection.
- New catalytic converter
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Oxygen sensor socket
- Penetrating oil
- Exhaust sealant
Removing the Mounting Brackets
To remove the mounting brackets from the catalytic converter, follow these detailed steps:
After removing the mounting brackets, you can proceed to remove the catalytic converter from the exhaust system.
Cutting the Exhaust Pipe
Step 7: Making the Cuts
To make precise cuts, mark the exact locations where the catalytic converter will be removed:
– **Front Cut:** Measure 6-8 inches away from the catalytic converter toward the engine and mark.
– **Rear Cut:** Measure 6-8 inches away from the catalytic converter toward the tailpipe and mark.
Using a reciprocating saw or a hacksaw, carefully cut through the exhaust pipe at the marked locations. Ensure the cuts are straight and clean.
Tips:
|
Before Cutting |
After Cutting |
Safety Precautions
Before you begin, take these safety precautions to avoid injury or damage:
Gather Tools and Materials
You will need the following tools and materials:
Locate the Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is located in the exhaust system, typically beneath the engine.
Disconnect the Battery
Safety first! Before working on any electrical components, disconnect the negative battery terminal.
Remove the Exhaust Pipe
Unbolt the exhaust pipe from the catalytic converter using the appropriate wrench and socket.
Remove the Oxygen Sensors
Use a specialized oxygen sensor socket to detach the oxygen sensors from the catalytic converter.
Replacing the Catalytic Converter
Step 1: Remove the Old Catalytic Converter
Using a penetrating oil, spray the bolts connecting the catalytic converter to the exhaust system and allow it to set for several minutes.
Step 2: Unbolt and Remove the Converter
Carefully unbolt the catalytic converter from the exhaust system and exhaust manifold. Gently pull the catalytic converter off the exhaust system and exhaust manifold.
Step 3: Position the New Catalytic Converter
Position the new catalytic converter in place and ensure it fits properly.
Step 4: Align and Bolt the Converter
Align the catalytic converter with the exhaust system and exhaust manifold. Hand-tighten the bolts until snug.
Step 5: Tighten the Bolts
Tighten the bolts securely using the appropriate wrench. Do not overtighten.
Step 6: Connect the Oxygen Sensors
Connect the oxygen sensors to the new catalytic converter and tighten them using an oxygen sensor socket.
Step 7: Reinstall the Exhaust Pipe
Reinstall the exhaust pipe onto the catalytic converter and tighten the bolts.
Step 8: Connect the Battery
Reconnect the negative battery terminal to complete the replacement process.
Reattaching the Oxygen Sensors and Battery Terminal
Reattaching the Oxygen Sensors
1. Locate the oxygen sensors on the exhaust manifold.
2. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the oxygen sensors.
3. Unscrew the oxygen sensors using a 22mm wrench.
4. Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads of the new oxygen sensors.
5. Screw the new oxygen sensors into the exhaust manifold.
6. Reconnect the electrical connectors to the oxygen sensors.
Battery Terminal
1. Remove the negative battery terminal using a 10mm wrench.
2. Remove the positive battery terminal using a 10mm wrench.
3. Clean the battery terminals and posts using a battery terminal cleaner.
4. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the battery terminals and posts.
5. Reattach the positive battery terminal.
6. Reattach the negative battery terminal.
| Tools Required | Materials Required |
|---|---|
| 10mm wrench | Anti-seize compound |
| 22mm wrench | Dielectric grease |
| Battery terminal cleaner |
How to Remove Catalytic Converter Subaru Legacy 2017
In order to remove the catalytic converter from a 2017 Subaru Legacy, you will need the following tools: a jack, jack stands, a wrench, a socket set, and a pair of gloves. Start by placing the car on the jack and jack stands. Then, locate the catalytic converter, which is located under the car, near the engine. Use the wrench to loosen the bolts that secure the catalytic converter to the exhaust system. Once the bolts are loose, you can remove the catalytic converter from the car.
People Also Ask
How much does it cost to replace a catalytic converter on a Subaru Legacy?
The cost to replace a catalytic converter on a Subaru Legacy will vary depending on the model year and the specific converter that is needed. However, a general estimate is that the cost will range from $1,000 to $2,500.
What are the symptoms of a bad catalytic converter on a Subaru Legacy?
There are several symptoms that may indicate a bad catalytic converter on a Subaru Legacy, including: poor engine performance, increased fuel consumption, and a strong odor of sulfur coming from the exhaust.
How long does it take to replace a catalytic converter on a Subaru Legacy?
The time it takes to replace a catalytic converter on a Subaru Legacy will vary depending on the skill level of the mechanic and the availability of the converter. However, most mechanics estimate that the job can be completed in 2-3 hours.
