Catalytic converter cover rattle/vibration

[Rushfan1]

My catalytic converter cover is rattling like crazy at 2500 + rpm. I was missing a bolt or two in the cover but even after having them added at the garage, it still rattles. I assume the issue is the cover. Should I just have catalytic converter cover removed altogether and avoid parking the car over something that could ignite (grass etc.)?

[tommi_e21]

you have a cat on an e21?????? are you sure

[arshad76]

If it's Canada or the States I think it's likely. You could decat it, but then won't it have an effect on your emissions testing? They're more stringent than here AFAIK.
If it is shot then I remember stressing about a merc I once had. £700 for a replacement or £170 for a stanless steel one made up for me at my local custom exhause (muffler I' guessing to you guys) place.

[Rushfan1]

My catalytic converter cover is rattling like crazy at 2500 + rpm. I was missing a bolt or two in the cover but even after having them added at the garage, it still rattles. I assume the issue is the cover. Should I just have catalytic converter cover removed altogether and avoid parking the car over something that could ignite (grass etc.)?

Yes I do have a catalytic converter as this is a Canadian spec car. I should be more specific and indicate that I am referring to the catalytic converter heat shield. The converter itself I believe is still good, should I just have the heat shield removed?

[Jeroen]

Common problem on any car I guess. I don't think there's much risk involved in removing it but you could first try to tighten it around the actual cat/damper using some exhaust clamps, also depends on how strict annual checks are over there. Over here a mising heat shield would not pose a problem either.

[tommi_e21]

rip the shield off

[E21meister]

Only prob is the heat... I don't have a heat shield on my centre box and I can feel the heat in the cabin. Mind you, if it's a cold part of Canada it might be a good thing.