How do I eliminate the O2 sensors to take out the catalytic converter? I want install a testpipe....planning on using this beast for off-roading, but I don't feel like spending a huge amount of cash on a converter that I might damage anyway.

 

What's a testpipe?
If you remove the O2 sensors then the computer will substitute a value for the O2 by referencing the TPS, Coolant sensor etc.. and set a code.

 

For offroad use, you can install what is called an O2 simulator in the downstream sensor. This will feed the PCM with data to keep it happy. This vehicle will not be legal for use on-road and an emissions inspection will fail.

You cannot remove the upstream O2 sensor as it is used for proper fuel management of the engine.

 

I would like to add.
If you disconnect the upstream O2 sensor, the puter will go into a default mode. It will run great, howevr your gas mileage will suck big time.

If you have a downstream O2 sensor, you could simulate it so the puter thinks its working. However as Swart pointed out, its no longer legal.

For off-raoding, simply put a skid plate over the cat. You need one over the tranny anyways. Plus the cat is tucked up between the frame rails and the only way your going to damage it is if your in sharp steep rocks, or a big *** stick gets up in there. A halfway decent skid plate is the best solution. Too keept he ehat out of hte cab, pop holes in the skid plate or just use tubing like an H1. Plu sput another layer of aluminum between the cat and floor. More then one way to skin this cat!!!! Pun intended.

 

IĀ“ve read somewhere about fooling the downstream sensor with a pipe conection (excuse my language), the type used when a plug thread is gone . So the sensor will stay sligtly away of the main flow then reading different from the upstream sensor, making happy the PCM.