How to Replace Catalytic Converter: 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500

Watch this video to learn how to replace the catalytic converter on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500.

Replacing Catalytic Converter on a 2009-2018 Dodge RAM 1500: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

• Catalytic converters: Driver side and Passenger side
• Penetrating oil
• Exhaust sealant

Tightening Torques

• Oxygen sensors: 22 Ft-lbs
• Catalytic converter to Exhaust manifold nuts: 30 Ft-lbs
• Muffler assembly clamp nuts: 40 Ft-lbs

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Dodge RAM 1500: HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel lug wrench
• Ratchet
• 8mm socket
• Flathead screwdriver
• Fork
• Extender
• 10mm socket
• Wire brush
• 16mm socket
• Sandpaper
• 15mm wrench X2
• Torque wrench
  • 20 to 250 Ft-lbs
  • 100 to 600 Ft-lbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

• Turn off the vehicle’s ignition and set the parking brake.
• Pull the hood release handle and open the hood.
• Disconnect the vehicle’s battery to ensure safety during the operation.

Step 2: Front Wheels Preparation

• Loosen the stud bolts on the front wheels.
• Lift and Secure the Vehicle:
• Lift the front of your vehicle using a jack.
• Secure the vehicle on jack stands for stability.

Step 3: Wheel Removal

• Take off the wheels to gain full access to the catalytic converter.
• Place the wheels under the vehicle for additional safety.

Step 4: Mudguard Removal

• Remove the mudguard by unclipping the ABS sensor cable and unscrewing retaining screws.

Step 5: Disconnect Oxygen Sensors

• Disconnect the upper oxygen sensor’s power supply by pressing the tab and pulling the connector.
• Remove the lower oxygen sensor connector using a fork.

Step 6: Unscrew Catalytic Converter Bolts

• Using a ratchet and a 10mm socket, unscrew the upper bolts securing the catalytic converter to the engine block.
• Unscrew the lower retaining bolts partially.

Step 7: Prepare Exhaust Flange

• Brush the nuts securing the exhaust line to the catalytic converter with penetrating oil.
• Unscrew the nuts using a ratchet and a 16mm socket.
• Shift the exhaust flange.

Step 8: Catalytic Converter Removal

• Remove the catalytic converter by finishing the unscrewing of the lower bolts.

Step 9: Clean and Prepare for New Parts

• Remove the metal gasket and clean the contact surface on the engine block using fine sandpaper.
• Place the new metal gasket in position.

Step 10: Install New Catalytic Converter

• Screw the new threaded rods onto the catalytic converter flange by hand.
• Tighten the threaded rods using two nuts and two 15mm wrenches for each rod.
• Slide the new catalytic converter into its slot.

Step 11: Reassemble

• Install the catalytic converter on the lower retaining bolts.
• Optionally, apply exhaust sealant to the junction point between the catalytic converter and the exhaust line.
• Put the exhaust flange back and screw the retaining nuts.
• Tighten all bolts with a torque wrench.
• Reinstall the upper bolts securing the catalytic converter to the engine block.

Step 12: Oxygen Sensor Reconnection

• Reconnect the lower oxygen sensor and secure the connector.
• Reconnect and guide the upper oxygen sensor cable.

Step 13: Mudguard Installation

• Put the mudguard back in place and tighten all screws.
• Clip the ABS sensor connector inside the mudguard.

Step 14: Wheel Replacement

• Put the wheels back on your vehicle.

Step 15: Lower and Secure the Vehicle

• Lower the car to the ground.
• Block the wheels properly for stability.

Step 16: Battery Reconnection

• Reconnect the vehicle’s battery.

Note: Follow safety guidelines and ensure all bolts are properly torqued. The process for the driver’s side is similar to the passenger’s side.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles:

• 2009 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2010 Dodge Ram 1500
• 2011 Ram 1500
• 2012 Ram 1500
• 2013 Ram 1500
• 2014 Ram 1500
• 2015 Ram 1500
• 2016 Ram 1500
• 2017 Ram 1500
• 2018 Ram 1500

Important Reminders

We’ll show you how to remove the catalytic converter on the passenger’s side. The operation is similar on the driver’s side.

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 catalytic converter on which we advise you to install new oxygen sensors.

If you wish, you can coat the junction point between the catalytic converter and the exhaust line with exhaust sealant. It is not advisable to do this on the upper part of the catalytic converter.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. CarParts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.