I prefer the Emico units as they truly fit like OEM, including appearance.
They are not OEM though. They appear to have more flow area than most other
units although I have not noticed a noticeable difference in power. It
should be noted that even these units do not have as much active material as
the OEM. The core is only about 3 or4 inches where the OEM almost completely
filled the housing. They do get the job done though.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
The Bus Depot
Sent: Monday, August 28, 2006 7:39 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Better Cat converters: OEM or aftermarket?

> BusD. Carries Emico cats for $128, apparently Emico is
> OEM.... and they have a stainless steel generic for
> $99. Is one better than the other? Also, Ive sourced
> some el-cheapos for $55 that require welding. Is there
> a real difference in all of these cats or is it
> stainless v.s non-stainless?

Some people prefer to spend more money for OEM as a matter of course, and on
some parts there is a substantial difference. But in this case, I use the
$99 one on my own Vanagon. It is a good quality U.S. made part, and is
direct-fit (no welding required). They are both good products. I have not
noticed any significant difference in longevity, ease of fitment, or ability
to pass state emissions inspection.

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  www.busdepot.com
  (215)  234-VWVW

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