1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

Replacement main catalytic converter for 84 GSL

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Old 04-17-21, 02:50 PM
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Replacement main catalytic converter for 84 GSL

Looking for opinions, suggestions for a main cat replacement.
Searches keep coming back to the MagnaFlow's direct fit, Federal/EPA Compliant, stainless steel.
But I did see some threads about stainless steel.
MagnaFlow lists the 23688 currently unavailable, but looks like Summit and eBay are options.

Three years back, but not too many miles ago, my main cat split in the front. I had it welded back together but now I think its split again.
Searching for a replacement. No e-check in Ohio. I'm not going to New York or California.
All emissions controls and air pump still installed.
I found the first two mono-cats hollowed out during the previous repair.

I had it running today and used a red-tail hawk feather (yard find) to check for air flow where there should not be any and got fluttering rear-top-left side.

Too noisy right now and I prefer the exhaust going out the rear of the car.

Old 04-17-21, 03:31 PM
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I have the Bonez "high flow" cat and it works great in my 83 GSL 12A.



Rather than cut my air tube, I built an adapter:



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Old 04-18-21, 07:57 AM
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Great. I will check it out.
Seems there was a configuration change from 83 to 84. The model to replace mine goes from 84 to 91.

Correction: 84 to 91 is for the MagnaFlow cat.
I found a Bonez high-flow for 84-85. Next post.

Last edited by TimWilbers; 04-18-21 at 10:38 AM.
Old 04-18-21, 10:35 AM
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I did find this:
RX7.COM | 1979-1985 Rx7 Exhaust (330)7-ROTARY
It replaces my two front mono-converters and the main with a single unit.
OK with me as the mono ones are now completely hollow.
It lists is as "The Bönez Street Exhaust Systems."

I have an inquiry in to rx7.com if it is still available.
Old 04-25-21, 09:04 AM
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And this arrived yesterday via UPS.
Bönez Performance Converter System - 84-85

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Old 04-26-21, 05:55 AM
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That's a nice looking replacement part! Where did you purchase it from?
Old 04-26-21, 10:16 AM
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Originally Posted by mazdaverx713b
That's a nice looking replacement part! Where did you purchase it from?
rx7.com

RX7.COM | 1979-1985 Rx7 Exhaust (330)7-ROTARY

"The Bönez Street Exhaust Systems utilize an ultra high temperature, high flow catalytic converter that has been specifically designed to handle the high exhaust temperatures the rotary engine produces.
The 81-83 system replaces both converters (main cat and precat) with a Bönez high flow converter and a presilencer. It will easily pass the annual "sniffer" test and clean up your exhaust to eliminate that special rotary exhaust "smell".
The 84-85 system replaces all three converters (main cat and both precats) with a Bönez high flow converter and a presilencer. It will pass a tailpipe "sniffer" test and get rid of that heavy rotary exhaust "odor".
These systems simply bolt up in place of the original parts. The optional Bolt and Gasket kits are recommended for a simple installation."

It was harder to get the old one out, than put in the new one. I ended up un-bolting the first mini-cat from the second mini-cat, and then wiggling out the first one.
Installation is not complete: nuts and air tube remain.
Old 04-26-21, 10:17 AM
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Originally Posted by mazdaverx713b
That's a nice looking replacement part! Where did you purchase it from?
Here.....

RX7.COM | 1979-1985 Rx7 Exhaust (330)7-ROTARY
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Old 04-28-21, 05:59 AM
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I appreciate the link, thank you. It looks like a nice replacement converter for the money!
Old 05-06-21, 06:51 PM
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I followed Aaron Cake's suggestions for split air pipe connection.
https://www.aaroncake.net/rx-7/cat.htm

And yes it did stink, but it is fading now.
What I did not anticipate was smoke coming off the pipe as the engine warmed up, then realized it was manufacture residue burning off.

Sounds good. No leaks.

Old 05-06-21, 08:34 PM
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Ahhh that new exhaust pipe smell!

​​​​​​Glad you got it sorted.
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