> 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.

Actually, I believe, but am not 100% certain, that the 83-91 cat (my part
number 22918, $99.95) will fit this application despite the fact that it is
not listed as such.  This is based on reports from a couple of previous
customers but has not been confirmed by me from direct experience.

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  http://www.busdepot.com