How to Install a Catalytic Converter on a 1999 Camry With California Emissions

The catalytic converter in your 1999 Camry, equipped with California-compliant emissions, is a three way converter that lowers not only hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions, but oxides of nitrogen emissions, as well. The modular design of the exhaust system in the Camry makes replacement of the catalytic converter a project that no longer requires welding skills to complete. The average home mechanic can complete this task in a couple of hours, using common hand tools.

Instructions

1

Allow the engine to cool down completely to avoid burns from hot exhaust system parts. Apply the parking brake and block the rear wheels with wheel chocks. Lift the front of the Camry, using a floor jack positioned under the front sub-frame. Place jack stands under both sides of the front sub-frame for safety.

2

Unbolt the front of the catalytic converter assembly from the bottom of the exhaust manifold, using a 14-mm socket and ratchet to remove the three retaining nuts. Unbolt the exhaust pipe bracket -- located near the curve in the front of the exhaust pipe -- from the exhaust pipe, using a 12-mm wrench.

3

Unbolt the exhaust hanger bracket -- located a few inches in front of the catalytic converter -- from the underside of the Camry, using a 14-mm socket and ratchet. Unbolt the rear of the converter assembly using a 14-mm socket and a 12-mm wrench. Slide the converter assembly from under the car.

4

Slide the new assembly under the Camry and position the rear of the assembly near the rear exhaust pipe. Install a new gasket on the rear exhaust pipe and attach the converter assembly loosely to the pipe.

5

Lift the front of the converter to meet the exhaust manifold and loosely install a new gasket and the 14-mm nuts. Reinstall the exhaust hanger and tighten all the nuts and bolts securely. Remove the jack stands and lower the front of the Camry.