Can anyone tell me why the catalytic converter on air-cooled, California
vans is unique from that of 49-state versions? I realize that the
California exhaust setup is different from 49-state, but the converter
appears to be just a simple, inline, 12" unit with 3-bolt flanges, like
any other VW converter. In fact, it seems to match the stock converter
that came out of my '87 Westfalia.

Some cat vendors that deal in direct-fit replacement cats list the same
converter for all vans of the same year. I bought one for my '87 and had
no problems. I would like to buy one for my '82 so I can sell it,
but....

Other vendors (including BusDepot) list California vans as having a
unique converter, and it is priced much higher than the $100 and much
more common cat.

Again, what gives?

Dan