New Catalytic Converter

Well I'm pretty sure the Catalytic converter is shot on my 2007 Tacoma (2.7L Prerunner). Shop confirmed it after I noticed loss of power and some odd knocking noises on acceleration (around 3800-4000 RPM when downshifting to pass). Just crawled under the truck and banged on the pipe and sure enough - it's rattling on the front cat.

Quote to replace (wait for it)....$2,000. Talked the dealer down to $1700 since I recently had to shell out some money for another problem recently. Local shop will price match. Part at the dealer is about $1500.

My questions for the group.
1) I found the part at Olatha Toyota parts (https://parts.olathetoyota.com/2007toyotatacomaparts.html) for $1183.54. I've ordered from them before (mudflaps/accessories) with no problems. I was a little suspicious with 2 dealers having such a price difference. Any known issues with that?

2) I was thinking about trying to do it myself to save some money. I've done some work on my cars in the past (even replaced a timing chain in a car I had some time back). Never done anything on the exhaust. It appears there are only 4 bolts and two O2 sensors to remove. I wanted to see if I could get them to turn, but NO DICE. Any advice on those? It's like they are welded in there. Maybe that's what the $400 in labor is for - but I'd at least like to try to save myself $400 to turn 4 bolts....

 

Exhaust bolts can be a bitch. Spray them with a penetrating fluid and let them sit for a while. Something to remember, when trying to remove the bolts, don't apply steady forceful pressure. Steady pressure will more than likely break the bolts or round the bolt head. Quick forceful pushes on the ratchet. Hit the ratchet or wrench with a hammer if you can. Air guns work on the same principle. Fast forceful hammering pressure.

 

Are you still under the federal warranty law?
http://www.carcarepeople.com/a/federal-emission-warranty-how-it-works

 

Thanks for the tip Moondeath! I'll give it another shot. If not I may get an electric impact wrench.
Savedone - I have 170K on the truck. It is in GREAT shape otherwise - I just drive it all over the place (All interstate miles). Hoping to get another 2-3 out of it.

 

I took off the front CATs on my 05 taco when I purchased the jba long tubes. I had about 120k miles when I did it last summer. Impact drill works great. I did one side by hand, and it was a pain getting it off even with the anti seize fluid. after I was done, I borrowed an impact drill from a friend and it was much easier. I suggest you change it out yourself and save the $$$ the dealer would charge. It's a lot easier than it sounds. just takes time. about 2-3 hrs depending on how fast you work. I did both headers install and CAT removal in about 4-5 hrs.