Pre-cat failing = new exhaust setup! Please help?

[ET-Speed]

I am one of the people being burned on the issue with the 2002-03 2.5 pre-cat recall. The recall was done on my car, but the pre-cat was not replaced. Now that it is failing and not covered, it's actually cheaper for me to get headers and redo the whole exhaust ($1600 low end extimate just to replace pre-cat!).

I HAVE searched and done some reading, but would still like to ask some questions. I just don't know much about exhaust.

This is all for a 2002 2.5S with a completely stock(crap) exhaust system.

Mainly I wan't to replace everything in the exhaust system, all the way back. I am fairly confident that I can do the installing myself.

Hotshot 02-05 2.5L headers- $311.97 from http://www.sportcompactonly.com
Can these be found any cheaper?

Vibrant Performance 02-05 2.5L Cat-back Exhaust - $499 from http://www.customenterprise.com/
Once again, cheaper? Or other cat-back system.

If I got both of these, would that be all I need to replace the whole system? From what I understand, the headers would take the place of the pre-cat and catalytic converter, meaning that the headers and cat-back system would be bolted together. Or would I need to leave the cat in there? I would like to just get rid of it. I would just get the o2 simulator to work around the SES light issue.

I am not dead set on these 2 pieces, but they seem to have good reputations, and don't seem ungodly expensive. Suggestions or opinions?

[ET-Speed]

I forgot to ask about possible problems that could arise from replacing all this. Anything I should be concerned about?

[xtremeaudio44]

Get the SS headers from Mark on the boards. They are much cheaper and work great as stated by numerous members. Here is his feedback thread:
http://www.nissanclub.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=175393

[ET-Speed]

what about the OBX racing 4-2-1s? Just say them for about $200 shipped. They are listed for the Spec V Sentra, so they should fit, correct?

Waiting to hear back from Mark for details on the other.

[ET-Speed]

Strike what I said about the OBX headers, heard they are crappy quality.

[ET-Speed]

I may just be talking to myself here. But I want some opinions.

I am going to say the word 'Stillen' and I don't want anyone to freak out.

Stillen Header and Race pipe combo - $417

Stillen exhaust rear section - $313

Total shipped - $776.10

I am only considering this because it seems that by going with these two pieces that are designed to be used together, on my vehicle, it would make it much easier for me to do myself because there will be no mis-matched items or custom work to be done. Header+pipe+rear section=a whole system I can bolt together myself. In a weekend at the shop (military base perk, free lifts and tools, etc.).

I know I can get headers cheapers, but then I would have to find a pipe, or leave some of the stock piping and the resinator (and the cat that I want to loose, and then still find a muffler.

Besides the fact that Stillen is expensive (these prices seem a whole lot lower than others though), I believe that this would be a good, complete system for me. Thoughs?

[xtremeaudio44]

I would definitely stay away from Stillen. The majority of their products are overpriced and in some instances garbage. If you don't go with the SS header then I would go with Hotshot. Hotshot has a good reputation. I suggest going custom after the header. It will save you money and is generally just as good if not better than the catbacks. You would also have an original setup. That's just my .02

[ET-Speed]

If I got the SS headers, and a magnaflow muffler, who could I take it to to do the rest? Can any place like Midas do a custom exhaust install, I have heard that having it done can be expensive? Also, will the SS header replace both cats or just the pre-cat, I do know that I want to get rid of both, and most muffler shops won't remove or bypass them.