Kind of a dumb maintenance question...

[gumby74]

I was noticeing lately that the hump on the driverside floorboard gets unusually hot randomly. (the area above the catalytic converter) Not just while idling, but sometimes while driving on the highway. I just noticed this recently occuring, before it would generally get hot and stay hot and actually cool down a bit when the car was in motion. Now it fluctuates to an even hotter state for moments at a time.My question? What is the average lifespan of a catalytic converter? The odometer is pushing 190K, and while the engine was freshened, and the header and exhaust replaced, the cat is the oldest part of my system. Could this be a sign of a tired cat or could there be fueling issues I should start looking into?

[Chukidori]

I have an issue like this as well..the drivers side floorboard / transmission tunel area radiates ALOT of heat which i can easily feel....im wondering what this is all about

[gumby74]

I have not had carpeting in this car for years, so I was able to notice this pretty quickly. It gets a tad uncomfortable at times.I am probably going to replace the cat shortly anyway, just to be on the safe side. I am more curious/concerned with this having to do with running rich or too lean. I have also noticed a drop in fuel mileage recently as well.

[180fan]

you'll usually burn hotter leaner. although it could also be dumping more fuel through that's getting burned off at the cat, which could explain your lower mileage and excess heat.

[gumby74]

I really think its dumping more fuel. I installed a Walbro a couple of months ago, and have yet to adress the fpr. I think I will start with those 2 things and see where I am afterwards.

[dlhS13]

It could be the cat. I to have no carpet and at on a long road trip it melted me sandel, just a little bit but ya it gets hot fast. I put some some of that heat reflecting tape around the trany tunnel. It help quite a bit. Is was putting a new clutch in so with it out it was easy. I;m sure it will be a job with the trany in because the hump is on the top side. Thats my suggestion. You can buy the tape a Home Depot.

[gumby74]

That is a good suggestion. I will be looking into that as well. I will be replacing my clutch here shortly as well, just putting aside some coinage for an aluminum driveshaft.All told, everything should be ready in a few weeks.

[dlhS13]

Off topic, what is the driveshaft going to cost you and from were?

[gumby74]

About $300 from a local drivetrain shop.The guy does most of the work on my 4x4, and normally does not mess with my car because its so damn low. I had to throw in some french toast sticks from Jack in the Box.

[dlhS13]

Found some real heat tape, rated for 1100 degrees. Doesn't have a price but can't be to exspensive.http://www.heatshieldproducts....e.php