1998 Dodge Ram Exhaust System

1998 DODGE RAM
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BIGDREW08
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1998 Dodge Ram 6 cyl Two Wheel Drive Automatic

I recently got straight pipes put on my truck, but before that, I had a pipe that just dumped a little bit after the catalytic converter and it was loud. When i got my truck back with the straight pipes, whenever i get to about 2500 rpm it goes quiet like there is a clog in the catalytic converter. My check engine light is on and the code read catalyst efficiency defective. So could a bad catalytic converter keep from the exhaust system producing the sound it should?
Oct 17, 2010 at 11:21 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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According to the code, the converter is bad. Based on your description, it sounds like the insides are loose and moving / plugging the exhaust. Is there a power loss? If you take a rubber mallot and tap the exhaust, do you hear a rattle?

Let me know.
Joe
Oct 20, 2010 at 12:02 AM
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BIGDREW08
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yes there is a loss of power and when the truck is on there is a rattling sound but I cant tell when i hit it with a mallet.
Oct 20, 2010 at 8:25 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,244 POSTS
That is my guess then. The converter is loose inside and plugging when you hit the gas. As a result, there is a power loss and change in sound.

Let me know what you find.
Oct 20, 2010 at 2:54 PM
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