Replacing the catalytic converter may be overwhelming when you think about it but with the correct leads and tools, you can do it by yourself. Let me take you through this manual to replace a catalytic converter on 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500. We’ll also highlight the benefits of using the Dynovox catalytic converter and why the Dynovox’s difference matters, check it here!
Preparing for the Replacement
Start by turning off your vehicle’s ignition, setting the parking brake, and pulling the hood release handle to open the hood. For safety reasons, we advise you to disconnect the battery. You can watch the video “How to Replace the Dodge RAM 1500 Car Battery” for guidance. This step is crucial to ensure there are no electrical hazards during the replacement process.
Accessing the Catalytic Converter
First, you should loosen the stud bolts on the front wheels. Jack up the front of your vehicle and securely place it on jack stands.
Removing the wheels will give you full access to the catalytic converter. Don’t forget to place the wheels under the vehicle for added safety.
Now, remove the mudguard by unclipping the ABS sensor cable retaining clip behind it. Using a ratchet and an 8mm socket, unscrew the three mudguard retaining screws and then remove the mudguard. You will now have a clear view of the catalytic converter.
Disconnecting the Oxygen Sensors
Start by disconnecting the power supply to the upper oxygen sensor by pressing on the tab and pulling on the connector. Unclip the cable from its plastic guide. Using a flat head screwdriver, remove the lower oxygen sensor connector retaining clip from its support. Next, using a fork, pull the connector towards you and disconnect it.
Removing the Old Catalytic Converter
Using a ratchet, an extender, and a 10mm socket, unscrew the two upper bolts securing the catalytic converter to the engine block. For the two lower retaining bolts, simply unscrew them a few threads. Brush the two nuts securing the exhaust line to the catalytic converter and spray them with penetrating oil. Next, unscrew them using a ratchet and a 16mm socket, then shift the exhaust flange. You can now remove the catalytic converter. Finish removing the two lower retaining bolts and then remove the metal gasket.
Installing the New Catalytic Converter
To ensure a perfect seal during reassembly, clean the contact surface between the metal gasket and the engine block using fine sandpaper. Take the new metal gasket and put it in place. Tighten the two lower retaining bolts roughly to hold the gasket in place.
Take the new converter, like the one from Dynovox, which we highly recommend for its quality and performance. check it here! This catalytic converter is designed specifically for the Dodge RAM 1500 and ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Install new oxygen sensors on the new catalytic converter. To do this, we recommend watching our video: “How to Replace the Oxygen Sensors 2009-2018 RAM 1500.” Take the new threaded rods and nuts provided in the new kits. Screw the threaded rods back onto the converter flange by hand. To finish tightening the threaded rods, screw the two nuts onto one rod by hand then, using two 15mm wrenches, lock the nuts against each other. This subsequently allows you to finish tightening the threaded rod. Repeat this step on the other threaded rod. Slide the new catalytic converter into its slot and install it on the two lower retaining bolts on the engine block. If you wish, you can coat the junction point between the converter and the exhaust line with exhaust sealant. It is not advisable to do this on the upper part of the catalytic converter.
Reassembling the Components
Install the catalytic converter in the exhaust line, put the exhaust flange back in place, and then screw the retaining nuts back in. Finish tightening using a torque wrench. Put the two upper bolts securing the converter to the engine block back in place and then screw them back in. Screw the two lower retaining bolts back in until they make contact and finish the tightening of the bolts with a torque wrench. Reconnect the lower oxygen sensor and clip the cable back onto its support. Reinsert the upper oxygen sensor cable into its guide and then reconnect it.
Put the mudguard back in place and tighten all the screws. Clip the ABS sensor connector back inside the mudguard. Afterwards, you can reattach the tyres to your vehicle. Lower the vehicle down and block the wheels correctly. To complete, reconnect the battery.
Conclusion
Changing the catalytic converter on a Dodge RAM 1500 is a task that you can do yourself with the right tools and information. You’ll need a good converter like this one, Dynovox’s works perfectly, it’ll last you long and ensure your vehicle continues to pass emission tests. You can click here for more on Dynovox’s catalytic converters! Have fun fixing!
