DEC Catalytic Converter (49 state) - 528i (97-98). Meets all the OBD2 requirements except for California. This part now includes the same noble metal content ("heavy loading") as the more expensive 50-state converters. This makes it more resistant to nuisance "efficiency" fault code issues.

• DEC Extended warranty - 2 years on the converter, 5yrs on the pipes
• Photo of DEC converter (showing O2 sensor ports)
• $10 flat rate shipping on the converter and any associated tools/hardware

Clamping sleeves (x2), Manifold Gaskets (x2) and Exhaust Copper Plated locknuts (x6) are available for purchase separately to connect the DEC cat to the muffler assembly.

DEC requires that oxygen sensors be replaced with the converter to ensure warranty protection. Ultimate Garage offers OEM oxygen sensors (mfg by Siemens) through the online store at very competitive pricing.

Shipping - hardware and gaskets (if selected) will ship from NJ via Fedex ground (see transit time map) . Catalytic converter will ship directly from DEC in CA. Expedited delivery options are available at additional cost.

Fitment - DEC catalytic converters are engineered and built to be "direct fit" replacements of the factory units. Occasionally, some of the longer catalytic converters (eg, 5-6' in length...BMW E36 3 series, E39 5 series, etc) may become "tweeked" in transit through rough handling. A 1/4" movement at one end can result in a 3/4" to 1" fitment/alignment issue at the other end. Should this occur, a steel prybar can be used to force the head-pipes into alignment with the manifolds and the back end can be pulled (plenty of leverage here) to align with the muffler. If any damage were to occur to the cat during this process, it will be covered as part of the factory warranty. In the event that a fitment problem is not correctable with reasonable force, please contact me for further recommendations and action.

Installation - I highly recommend that this installation be done with the vehicle on a lift due to the overall length of the catalytic converter and the required angle of approach for alignment with the manifolds. It is very difficult to get the proper leverage (should additional force/prying be required) with the car on jackstands and only 18-20" of working room.

Additional comments - The most common reason for replacing an OBDII converter is a PO420 code ("Catalyst Inefficiency"). This is caused when the rear oxygen sensor(s) detect a fluctuation that is greater than the vehicle's computer allows. The oxygen sensors do not measure Hydrocarbons, Carbon Monoxide, or Nitric Oxide.....they only measure the oxygen retention of the catalyst. If there is any type of air leak, it could trip this code. DEC has also found that using a higher octane fuel than the manufacturer recommends can cause red light problems. It will cause too much carbon to be built up and trip the PO420 code. CARBON BUILD UP is a major problem. Carbon releases oxygen and will give an incorrect oxygen sensor readings causing the air fuel mixture to be incorrect. This also causes more carbon to build up because of the incorrect fuel mixture. Carbon needs to be cleaned out to maintain proper air fuel mixtures!

Warranty Exceptions - Vehicles that have had aftermarket (ie, "performance") fuel management software changes may experience premature failure of the catalytic converter. This may result in the failure to pass state smog testing. DEC will inspect all cats returned for warranty replacement to determine if there was a "manufacturing" failure. If the failure was due to engine or fuel management issues, they will typically provide a "one-time only" courtesy warranty replacement. Customer is responsible for all shipping (inbound and return) and labor costs on all warranty replacements.